Grow Wild Trail Run

Race Overview

Become a founding runner of a new trail running tradition at the Northland Arboretum.

Trail racing is back at the Arb.

Join us for the inaugural Grow Wild Trail Run at the Northland Arboretum on Saturday, August 22nd. For nearly two decades, the Arb was home to one of the Brainerd Lakes Area’s favorite trail running traditions, and we are excited to once again welcome runners to our trails with a new name and a new chapter for the future.

Participants can choose between a Half Marathon or 10K race, both taking place entirely on Northland Arboretum property.

Race Details

• Half Marathon Start Time: 7:30 AM
• 10K Start Time: 8:00 AM
• Course Loops: Half Marathon participants will complete two loops: 10K participants will complete one (shortened) loop.
• Trail Type: This is a fully off-road trail race utilizing the Arb’s scenic trail system through forests, rolling terrain, and natural landscapes.

See course map and elevation chart below (subject to change)

The Grow Wild Trail Run will feature a gun start with professional chip timing provided by Pickle Events.

Packet Pickup & Expo

• Friday, August 21st: Health & Wellness Expo + Packet Pickup from 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Northland Arboretum Visitor Center.
• Saturday, August 22nd: Day-of Packet Pickup & Registration from 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM at Northland Arboretum Visitor Center.

Runner Information

• Event Merchandise: All registered participants will receive an event T-shirt and finisher medal.
• Guaranteed T-shirt Deadline: August 5th, 2026.
• Admission: All racers will receive free admission to the Northland Arboretum all weekend (Friday–Sunday).
• Participant Limit: Runner capacity is limited to 350 participants: early registration is encouraged.

Follow parking attendants upon arrival - Please do not park at the movie theatre.

Aid Stations

• 10K Aid Stations: Planned at approximately Mile 3, Mile 5, and Finish Line.
• Half Marathon Aid Stations: Planned at approximately Mile 3, Mile 5, Mile 7, Mile 10, and Finish Line.
• Aid Station Supplies: Aid stations will include water & electrolytes.

Additional Information

• Dogs Policy: No dogs allowed on the racecourse: dogs are welcome at the Arb and must be on leash.
• Fundraiser Purpose: This event is a fundraiser for the Northland Arboretum and helps support trail maintenance, environmental education, recreation opportunities, conservation projects, and continued improvements throughout the Arb.
• Current Fundraising Goal: We are currently raising money to light our forest ice skating trail.

Come run, explore, and GROW WILD WITH US.

For more information, visit the Grow Wild Trail Run website.