Lake Macbride Trail Races

Lace up for an unforgettable trail experience at the Lake Macbride Trail Races on July 18, 2026, in Solon, IA. Offering both 50K and 25K distances, this event invites runners to explore the diverse and scenic trails of Lake Macbride State Park, Iowa's largest state park. The moderately challenging, looped course starts and finishes at the Macbride Spillway parking area, taking participants on an immersive journey through nature.

The race features a dynamic course that balances runnable sections with technical challenges. Runners will begin on the North Loop, encountering mainly crushed limestone trails adjacent to the lake before transitioning to more technical terrain on the North Snowmobile trails. The South Loop promises even greater variety, with engaging single track, open prairie sections, and "fun hills" to test your mettle. This meticulously designed route keeps runners predominantly on trails, carefully avoiding major road sections for a truly wild experience. Expect well-supported aid stations every few miles, praised by past runners for their generous stocking of hydration and nutrition, along with enthusiastic volunteers and even HAM radio operators to ensure safety on course.

Typical race day conditions in mid-July include highs around 84°F and lows around 63°F, with a 15% chance of precipitation, so runners should prepare for potential warmth and humidity. Participants consistently highlight the race's challenging yet rewarding nature, with many appreciating the beautiful scenery and the palpable sense of accomplishment at the finish. With a cap of 175 combined runners for its inaugural year, the Lake Macbride Trail Races are set to provide an intimate and exceptionally well-managed event focused on delivering an outstanding runner experience.