Glade Top Trail Run

Lace up your trail shoes for the Glade Top Trail Run, an exhilarating journey through the rugged heart of the Mark Twain National Forest on April 4, 2026. Set in Ava, MO, this unique event offers distances for every level of runner: a challenging 10.25-mile trail run, a spirited 4.25-mile trail run/hike, and a scenic 1-mile run/walk. Typical race day conditions in early April feature comfortable highs around 70°F and lows around 41°F, with a modest 17% chance of precipitation, providing ideal weather for tackling the trails.

The longer distances are renowned for their extremely challenging terrain, demanding participants be prepared for water crossings, log barriers, deep gullies, and uneven running surfaces. Runners will traverse portions of the Glade Top Trail, Missouri's only National Forest Scenic Byway, which winds along narrow ridge tops offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Ozark landscape, stretching up to 40 miles. The course, starting and finishing at Wolf Junction within the Mark Twain National Forest, includes varied topography with uphill sections, technical turns, and multiple creek crossings, promising an unforgettable adventure.

Dedicated aid stations are strategically placed along the course, ensuring runners are well-supported. The 4.25-mile course includes a water station with a medic and photographer at its turn-around. For the 10.25-mile distance, expect water jugs, medics, and even a porta potty at key points like the 5.1-mile mark, a water jug and medic at the 7.1-mile corner, and a final water station around mile 9. Beyond the physical test, the Glade Top Trail Run holds a special place in the community, benefiting the Pat Souder Henry Scholarship Fund for Ava High School. This race is a true gem for those seeking a challenging trail experience amidst stunning natural beauty, all while supporting a worthy cause.