Lace up your shoes for the Ohio and Erie Canal Reservation parkrun, a free, friendly, and welcoming weekly 5K event held in Cleveland, OH. Set for Saturday, May 30, 2026, and every Saturday, this race invites runners, joggers, and walkers of all abilities to experience a unique course within a picturesque urban oasis. Typical race day conditions in late May offer pleasant highs around 74F and lows near 59F, with only a 14% chance of precipitation, creating ideal running weather.

The course, accurately measured at 5000m, navigates a scenic blend of asphalt multi-purpose paths and occasional trail sections that might see some mud after rain. It’s primarily a flat, well-marked out-and-back route alongside the historic Ohio & Erie Canal and the recovering Cuyahoga River, featuring one notable hill near the finish to challenge participants. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including bald eagles, great blue herons, and basking turtles, and enjoy the impressive railway trestle crossing overhead. Restrooms are conveniently located near the start/finish line and at the 1 and 2-mile marks, with additional facilities at the Canalway Center.

Beyond the run, the Ohio and Erie Canal Reservation parkrun fosters a vibrant community atmosphere. Launched in 2019 as Cleveland's first parkrun, it's entirely volunteer-organized and renowned for its exceptionally friendly participants and crew. After crossing the finish line, join fellow parkrunners for a post-event social at the Canalway Center Café, which offers refreshments and a kid-friendly environment perfect for swapping stories and enjoying the camaraderie. This event is not just a race; it's a chance to connect with nature and community.