Iowa
Iowa Trail Running Calendar 2026-2027
Explore the best trail runs in Iowa for 2026-2027! Our updated list features 49 exciting trail runs across the region. Find your next trail run in Iowa below and join the trail community at these great events!
October 2026
A multi loop trail ultramarathon in Dubuque offering 100 mile and 100 kilometer options across varied terrain with substantial elevation gain.
Trail races at Geode State Park in Danville IA on Oct 17, 2026 offering 25K, 12K and 5K across varied trail terrain with awards and geodes for finishers.
Experience a fast and flat out and back race on the scenic Wabash Trace Nature Trail with distances including a 10K, Half Marathon, and a 50K ultramarathon.
The 8th Annual Pony Hollow Trail 5K in Elkader on October 24, 2026 supports a trail expansion to link two trailheads into a continuous loop.
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
The Iowa Trail Run Series: Whiterock takes place November 7, 2026 at Whiterock Conservatory in Coon Rapids, Iowa. Offered distances include 5K, 10K, a half marathon and a new 30K option, with registration opening November 11, 2025.
A fall running event at Colony Acres in North Liberty featuring a 5K, a Maize Mile, and a combined 4 mile option with proceeds benefiting Let Me Run.
Experience the scenic Mines of Spain in Dubuque with 25K and 50K trail races featuring stream crossings, technical stone steps, and beautiful Mississippi River views.
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 backyard ultra in Delmar IA featuring repeated 4.16 mile loops until one runner remains, plus a 4 mile community run, camp spaces, crew access, and prizes.
Test your endurance at Pinicon Ridge Park during this six hour trail race featuring a scenic woodsy loop and a heated lodge for participants.
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.
A 3 mile run and walk on the all terrain South Shore Walking Trail at Lake Panorama, starting behind Panorama Elementary School with tiered registration fees.
Get Roasted Turkey Trot 5K and kids dash in Waverly, Iowa on November 26, 2026. Timed 5K, event swag and awards, with proceeds to The Exchange Club of Waverly.
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.
A multi-distance trail event at Hitchcock Nature Center offering 100 mile, 101K, 50 mile and half marathon loops with three staffed aid stations per full loop. Proceeds support Hitchcock Nature Center and the local trail system.