Des Moines
Trail Running Calendar near Des Moines 2026-2027
Explore the top trail runs near Des Moines for 2026-2027! We've gathered 12 exciting trail runs in the area. Check out our detailed list below to find your next local trail run.
September 2026
A community 5k at Reclaimed Rails Brewing Company in Bondurant Iowa on September 20 2026 where participants can run walk or jog the course and finish with a celebration at the brewery.
An off road 5 Miles obstacle course in Saint Charles, Iowa on September 26, 2026, hosted by Contributors Breakfast Club; the local fundraiser keeps proceeds in Iowa and lets participants help design several obstacles.
Test your endurance at Lake Ahquabi in a classic backyard ultra where runners must complete a 4.167 mile loop every hour until only one remains.
October 2026
A community 5K run and walk at the Iowa Arboretum that welcomes dogs, includes packet pickup and T-shirts for preregistered entrants, and offers post-event refreshments for people and pets.
Trail races at Brown's Woods in West Des Moines offering 5K, 10K and 15K on single and double track dirt, with proceeds supporting local trail organizations.
Timed endurance events at Gray's Lake Park offering 6, 12 and 24 hour races scored with an age and sex equalizer for overall awards.
November 2026
A five mile off road race through three historic farm sites at Living History Farms featuring costume contests, age group awards, a free kids run, and a commemorative shirt and cowbell.
4 mile trail run at Goeldner Woods on November 7, 2026, with individual and four person team options, rugged terrain and a postrace pull up time bonus.
A charity 5K and 1 mile fun run in Des Moines on November 14, 2026, held at Confluence Brewing Company. The looped trail event features chip timing and supports Marys Helping Hands, which provides basics for new families.
Experience a 100 percent trail event at Jester Park with loop distances ranging from 10 miles to 100 miles on rolling Iowa terrain.
December 2026
Sycamore 8 is a December trail race in Johnston, Iowa, that follows the Sycamore Trail along the Des Moines River. The route offers rolling single track, river views, variable winter conditions, and a field capped at 300 participants.