The 30K course heads out on what we think is the most beautiful 2-mile segment of gravel path in the Midwest. The course then travels inland onto the park’s single-track and multi-use trail system, climbing up and descending the Niagara escarpment multiple times. The course brings runners atop Sven’s and Eagle bluff, ensuring that runners climb and descend the maximum amount possible within the park. The race finishes where it started at Welcker’s Point Shelter with food and beverage waiting.
The 14K course is mellow compared to the 30K, but still features some of the park’s best trails and challenging terrain. It heads out on our favorite gravel path with the 30K, then experiences a couple of tricky climbs. It separates from the 30K at around mile 5, unless you make an impulse decision resulting in an extra 16K… just kidding, don’t do that. The 14K will climb Sven’s bluff and feature multiple longer descents, relative to the park’s topography. The 14K race also finishes where it started, at Welcker’s Point Shelter, with food and beverages waiting.
2025 Strava course maps: Join the official Pen Park Trails Fest Strava Club to connect with fellow runners before and after the event!
Aid Stations:
Four aid stations will be on the 30k and two on the 14k. At each aid station, you can expect:
- Water
- Electrolyte drink
- Snacks
- Volunteers
- Basic first aid
- Garbage bins
Cups with fluids and snacks will be available for you to grab from the tables at aid stations. They will not be handed to you. You are encouraged to carry your own bottles and snacks, but aid stations offer you the option not to.
Please don’t litter during the event or ever. It will result in a disqualification.
Course Cutoffs: Both distances will have a 6-hour time limit, and the 30k will have one strictly enforced cutoff on the course.
