Little Carolina Trail Fest

Get ready to experience the "southern vibes" of the Little Carolina Trail Fest, a unique evening trail race taking place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the picturesque Lagoon Picnic Area in Cleveland Metroparks, Olmsted Falls, OH. This event offers a choose-your-own-adventure format with distances of 5K, 10K, 15K, and 20K, all completed on a fun 5K loop that runners, hikers, and ruckers can tackle up to four times. The course itself is a delightful blend of trail, bridle path, road, and rolling hills, promising diverse terrain and the chance to spot local wildlife as you make your way through one of the organizers' favorite routes.

What truly sets the Little Carolina Trail Fest apart is its lively atmosphere and rewarding experience. Each completed 5K loop earns you a special distance pin to add to your custom finisher medal, marking your accomplishment as you progress through your chosen distance. After crossing the finish line, the festivities continue with an vibrant afterparty featuring live bluegrass music from Ozark Mountain Mercy and a welcoming beer garden, where your first beverage is on the house. Typical race day conditions in late June bring comfortable highs around 81F and lows around 63F, with an 18% chance of precipitation, making for pleasant evening running weather.

Packet pick-up begins at 4:30 PM, with the race, beer garden, and live music kicking off at 6:00 PM, creating a seamless transition from exertion to celebration. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or simply looking to enjoy a summer evening on the trails with good music and company, the Little Carolina Trail Fest welcomes all paces and promises an unforgettable blend of fitness and fun in the heart of the Cleveland Metroparks.