River’s Edge Trail Half Marathon 2026

Description

Race Overview

Enjoy the beautiful Iowa River Greenbelt with this 13.1 mile paved loop beginning in Eldora, taking you along the River's Edge Trail to Steamboat Rock, and coming back to Eldora through the beautiful Pine Lake State Park. The race will start and end at Memorial Park on the east side of Eldora located near the Welcome Center. We will be donating the proceeds from the run to the continued progress on the River’s Edge Trail.

Be greeted by our small town charm along the route and at the start and finish line. Your fans will have numerous opportunities to cheer you on along the way, while you will be able to enjoy some beautiful views as well. Enjoy post race refreshments and a warm breakfast of pancakes and sausage served fresh after you finish in Memorial Park.

*NOTE: Those who register after 9/8/26 will not be guaranteed a race shirt and swag bag items. We have a limited amount of extra shirts ordered that will be available to late registrants on a first-come first-serve basis. You may email the race organizers for more information.

Packet Pick-Up

Packet pick-up options will be available on Friday evening and the morning of the race. Those registered will receive an email leading up to the race with details on the time and place of packet pick up.

Start Times

For those who choose to exclusively walk the half marathon course, you will begin at 7 am. All runners and run/walkers will begin at 8 am.

Parking

Parking will be available at the start/finish area for participants and spectators just west of the park in the Hardin County Fair Grounds. Park Street will be closed for the safety of all participating. You may enter the fair grounds from the west side on 11th Avenue.

Bathrooms

Restrooms are available at Memorial Park (park restrooms) and in the Welcome Center, both located right near the start/finish area. There will be numerous bathroom opportunities available along the route. Stay tuned for exact locations.

Water stations

We will have numerous water stops along the route manned by different volunteers and organizations. Stay tuned for a more detailed list of where they will be along the route.

Awards

All pre-registered finishers (runners and walkers) will receive custom locally crafted wooden finisher medals made right here in Eldora at the Backwoods Gallery. Top award winners will only be awarded to the overall top two male and female finishers, not separated by runners and walkers nor into specific age groups.

Post Race Refreshments

After the race you can hydrate and refuel with post race grab and go items such as water, gatorade, and chocolate milk, along with bananas and granola bars. Once you are cooled off, head over to the Memorial Park shelter for a warm breakfast of pancakes and sausage cooked fresh by our local Eldora Kiwanis Club. The meal is included in your registration. Spectators and the public are welcome to enjoy a warm meal as well with a freewill donation to the Kiwanis Club.