2020 EVENT POSTPONED, DATE TBD. *** Choose from a 5k, 15k or 13.1 mile trail run where the dinosaurs roamed! Long ago, dinosaurs left footprints in the mud at the edge of an ancient ocean. Today, you can run in their tracks at night, but don’t let them catch you. …
MORE
2020 EVENT POSTPONED, DATE TBD.
***
Choose from a 5k, 15k or 13.1 mile trail run where the dinosaurs roamed! Long ago, dinosaurs left footprints in the mud at the edge of an ancient ocean. Today, you can run in their tracks at night, but don’t let them catch you.
Bring a headlamp or flashlight, because you will be running after sunset following a course of reflective arrows to help find your way! The trails can be rocky and technical in spots, so bring your sense of adventure.
The 13.1 mile (half marathon) will complete a 15k loop first, followed by a 5k loop. We may add a small section to get the appropriate mileage, but remember, for every uphill there is a down! Please carry a backup light source in case your primary burns out over the course of the race. You will get to come through transition after the first loop and can put your own special sag bag food/supplies on a table at the turnaround (before the race) if you desire, so that you can access it before heading back out on lap 2. We will also have water/Gatorade available at this table. Aid Stations (6) Every 2-2.5 miles beginning at mile 2.7.
The 15k loop runs from the amphitheater down to cross the river at a slippery, low water crossing (yes you will get your feet wet early on), then heads out on a rocky trail that will take you around much of Dinosaur Valley State Park’s outer loop trail. This is a challenging course but plenty of fun. Aid Stations (4) Every 2-2.5 miles beginning at mile 2.7.
The 5k loop runs from the amphitheater down to cross the river at a slippery, low water crossing (yes you will get your feet wet early on), then makes a rocky ascent to a scenic overlook before heading back down, then along the river to a 2nd river crossing where you will head back on a trail behind the campgrounds. Some years we cross the river by hopping from rock to rock at Dino Track #2. Anyway you cut it, the climb to the scenic overlook and back down are steep and rocky. You will cross the river twice (once at the start and once at the end of the loop). Aid Station at Park Road 5 (1.7 miles into course).
Your race registration includes the park entrance fee, but you still need to stop at the park entrance to let the rangers know you are here to race. They will give you a sticker for your window.
This race is part of the XTERRA Trail Running Series—some of the most recognizable, enjoyable, sometimes-rooted, sometimes-rocky, sometimes-sandy, tree-ducking, creek-crossing, hill-climbing, dirt-on-your-shirt, sweat-in-your-eye trail runs on the planet.
LESS