Riverside parkrun

Lace up your shoes for the Riverside parkrun, a free, friendly, and timed 5K event held every Saturday morning at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan. On March 21, 2026, join a welcoming community for a scenic run, jog, or walk along the Grand River. The course is renowned for being very flat and pleasant, run entirely on permanent paved paths, making it an ideal choice for participants of all ages and fitness levels, from first-timers to seasoned runners. While primarily paved, some sections may have mud, leaves, or puddles following rain.

This down-and-back course starts at the north end of Riverside Park, offering picturesque views of Grand Rapids' premier urban park and Michigan's longest river. Typical race day conditions in late March include highs around 47F and lows near 27F, with a 14% chance of precipitation, providing cool and invigorating weather for your effort. As a volunteer-led event, Riverside parkrun embodies a strong sense of community, focusing on inclusivity and encouraging everyone to participate. Restrooms are available at both the north and south ends of the course for convenience.

What truly sets Riverside parkrun apart is its inclusive atmosphere and post-event social gathering. After you cross the finish line and receive your timed result (remember to register online once and bring your scannable barcode!), many participants continue the camaraderie with a post-parkrun coffee at Sparrows Coffee. Whether you're aiming for a personal best, looking for a consistent fitness routine, or simply want to enjoy a morning outdoors with friendly faces, the Riverside parkrun promises an engaging and supportive experience.