Lace up your shoes for the Howard Temin Lakeshore Path parkrun, a vibrant 5K community event set to take place on March 28, 2026, in Madison, WI. This free, weekly, volunteer-led run welcomes participants of all paces and abilities, whether you're a seasoned runner, a casual jogger, or prefer to walk, even with a stroller or a dog on a short leash. The event fosters a friendly and inclusive atmosphere, making it a perfect opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts and enjoy a post-run coffee.

The scenic out-and-back course unfolds along the historic Howard Temin Lakeshore Path, a route named after Nobel Prize winner Howard Temin, who frequently traversed it for reflection. Starting and finishing near the Helen C. White Library at 600 N. Park St., the path offers stunning views of Lake Mendota and meanders through the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Lakeshore Nature Preserve. Runners will experience a varied terrain of tarmac and trail paths, passing by lush forests and ancient Native American burial mounds nestled near Observatory Hill. While marshals or signs will guide the way, participants should be mindful that sections of the course may accumulate mud, leaves, or puddles after rain, and the path is shared with other users.

Typical race day conditions in late March in Madison see comfortable highs around 50°F and lows around 31°F, with a modest 12% chance of precipitation, creating a refreshing environment for your 5K effort. This parkrun stands out for its strong community focus, encouraging everyone from first-timers to experienced runners to participate. With a dedicated "tail walker" ensuring no one finishes last, it's truly an event about participation and camaraderie rather than competition. Simply register once for free, bring your scannable barcode, and become part of this welcoming Madison running tradition.