Lace up your trail shoes for the DINO Trail Run Series at Paynetown State Recreation Area on Saturday, April 4, 2026, in Bloomington, Indiana. This event, featuring challenging 15K and 5K distances, plus a free Kids Run, promises an unforgettable adventure through the picturesque Hoosier National Forest. Paynetown, a newer gem in the acclaimed DINO Series, offers a truly rugged and remote trail experience.

The course primarily utilizes the Pate Hollow Trail, renowned for its challenging terrain and lovely views, winding through forested hills with ascents, descents, and natural obstacles like dirt, roots, rocks, and occasional stream crossings. The 15K is a single-lap journey that DINO rates highly for both hills and surface difficulty, making it one of the most demanding courses in the entire series. Runners frequently praise the park's rugged beauty and the sense of solitude found on its trails. Typical race day conditions in early April feature comfortable highs around 61°F and lows around 39°F, with a 21% chance of precipitation, setting the stage for exhilarating trail running.

Your race day begins at the Paynetown State Recreation Area (4850 State Hwy 446), with registration opening at 7:30 AM. The 15K kicks off at 9:00 AM, followed by the 5K at 9:10 AM, and a celebratory Kids Run at 10:30 AM. Aid stations typically provide water and sports drinks to keep you fueled, ensuring you conquer the remote sections of this memorable course. A standard DNR gate fee applies for vehicles entering the recreation area.