Grand Explorers' Trail Race 2026

Description

Explore two parks in one race. Run (or walk!) through two beautiful Ottawa County Parks that sit along the Grand River. #2Parks1Race

The Ottawa County Parks Foundation and Ottawa County Parks are excited to host this fun, family-friendly run/walk and celebrate the recently completed Idema Explorers Trail that connects Grand River Park to Grand Ravines Park. Come and enjoy nature, community, and some post-race treats. Ottawa County Parks are for everyone.

The course starts at Grand River County Park, winding you through a natural surface trail until you hit the newly completed Idema Explorers Trail segment that leads you along the Grand River to Grand Ravines County Park. As you enter Grand Ravines, you will see an old covered bridge and go up a small incline to a spectacular view of the river. If you’re lucky, you might even see the resident bald eagles out fishing.

If you are running (or walking) the 5K, you will turn around at this point. If you are running the 10K, you will continue to wind yourself through Grand Ravines Park, around past the dog park, through the meadow, across the Idema suspension bridge, down some stairs, and back through the woods to Grand River Park. Sounds pretty Grand, doesn’t it?

Starting Time: The kids’ 1-mile fun run/walk will start at 8:00 am. The 10K and 5K races will start at 8:30 am. The kids’ fun run/walk will be on a paved trail only, so strollers will be allowed. (No strollers will be allowed on the 10K/5K route due to difficult terrain and narrow trails in some areas of the course.)

Dogs: Dogs will be allowed to run the 10K and 5K races with their human, but they must be on a six-foot leash at all times. We know dogs are a part of the family, we ask that you be considerate of those around you and that you only bring a dog that is well-mannered and comfortable around people, including children, and other dogs. We want everyone to have a great time!

Registration Price increases on April 1, 2026, for the 5K and 10K. * Kids' 1-Mile Fun Run price does not increase. Family discount available. Register before Saturday, May 30, 2026, to guarantee a T-shirt!