LABOR DAY TRAIL CHALLENGE 5K · 10K · Half · Marathon

LABOR DAY TRAIL CHALLENGE

Conquer the Lost Pines on single-track trails along the Colorado River

Date: September 5, 2026 | Location: McKinney Roughs Nature Park, Bastrop TX | Distances: 5K · 10K · Half · Marathon

About the Race

• Experience: Kick off your Labor Day weekend with an unforgettable trail running experience at McKinney Roughs Nature Park, a stunning 1,140-acre preserve just 13 miles east of Austin along the Colorado River.
• Terrain: This is Central Texas trail running at its finest. You'll traverse four distinct ecosystems. Post Oak Savannah, Blackland Prairie, East Texas Piney Woods, and a lush riparian corridor, all in a single race.
• Challenge: Expect technical single-track, scenic river overlooks, and the kind of terrain that makes every mile an adventure.
• For Everyone: Whether you're a seasoned ultra-distance trail runner taking on the full marathon, a veteran racer tackling the half, or a newcomer ready for your first 5K off-road, the Labor Day Trail Challenge has a distance for you. All finishers receive a custom medal.

Four Distances, One Epic Course

• 5K: 3.1 miles · Beginner Friendly
• 10K: 6.2 miles · Intermediate
• Half Marathon: 13.1 miles · Intermediate
• Marathon: 26.2 miles · Advanced

Note: Early bird pricing ends April 1, 2026 — prices increase $10 after that date.

Course Highlights

• Lost Pines Forest: Run through towering loblolly pines and eastern red cedars.
• River Overlooks: Scenic views of the Colorado River from bluff-top trails.
• Rolling Elevation: Up to 469 ft of elevation gain on technical single-track.
• Aid Stations: Water, electrolytes, and snacks available.

Race Swag

• T-Shirt: Moisture-wicking, gender-specific cut.
• Finisher Medal: Custom Lost Pines design.

Race Details

• Date: Saturday, September 5, 2026
• Day: Labor Day Weekend
• Start: 7:00 AM
• Location: McKinney Roughs Nature Park

Address: 1884 State Hwy 71 West, Cedar Creek, TX 78612

• Surface: Dirt / Single-Track Trail
• Chip Timed: Yes
• Stroller Friendly: ❌ No (trail course)

Getting There

Located on Hwy 71 just 13 miles east of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Look for the distinctive rock wall entrance with windmill on the south side of the highway. Free parking available in the main lot with additional overflow parking.

Address: 1884 State Hwy 71 West, Cedar Creek, TX 78612

Nearby Accommodations: Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa is adjacent to the park. Additional hotels available in Bastrop (8 miles east).

For more details, visit the official race page.