Head For The Hills

Race Overview

Show your support for Moreland Hills parks by joining us on October 3rd in the heart of the Chagrin River valley for Head For The Hills 2026.

Location

Moreland Hills is home to many of the area’s most prized and pristine green spaces. These include:

• Forest Ridge Preserve: A beautiful 142-acre area where this event will take place.
• Lang Pavilion: The venue for the event.
• Cleveland Metroparks South Chagrin Reservation: A scenic natural area to explore.
• James A. Garfield Birth Site: A historic park and cabin.

Purpose

Registration fees and all donations benefit the non-profit Moreland Hills Parks Commission. This annual event provides the Parks Commission with its primary source of funds. The mission is to:

• Support preservation: Maintain and protect our local parks.
• Enhance improvements: Fund upgrades and facilities in the parks.
• Promote enjoyment: Encourage community engagement with natural spaces.
• Community impact: Reach hundreds of community members visiting parks each year.

Event Details

We are proud of our scenic, challenging, and competitive 5K through the valley! But you don’t have to be a runner to enjoy this event: you can also experience:

• 1.5 Mile Self-Guided Hike: Bring the whole family!
• Commemorative Shirt: Participants in the 5K and hike receive a shirt (While Supplies Last!!).
• Prizes: 5K competitors have the chance to win overall and age group prizes.
• Kids Activities: Free activities, crafts, and more for children.

Food and Refreshments

Enjoy fresh, hot mini donuts, freshly brewed coffee, hot chocolate, fresh-squeezed lemonade, and more from Donut NV food truck! All available for purchase starting at 8AM.

Health and Safety

NovaCare Rehabilitation will provide on-site care to help participants perform their best and recover quickly and safely. This includes:

• Warm-Ups: Pre-event warm-ups and injury prevention taping.
• Recovery Treatments: Post-race recovery assistance.
• Pain Assessment: Help with aches, pains, and acute injuries.

Start Times

All activities begin on October 3rd:

• 8:00 am: Runner/Hiker registration and packet pickup
• 8:45 am: Chagrin River Road closes
• 9:00 am: 5K Run and 1.5 mile hike start
• 10:00 am: 5K awards announcement

Timing System

5K run: MyLaps BibTag Chip timed

Registration Fees

Participate for the following fees:

• 5K Run: $30.00 (Kids 6-15: $15.00)
• 1.5 Mile Hike: $30.00 (Kids ages 6-15: $15.00)
• Free Entry: No registration for others (donations appreciated)
• Kids 5 and Under: Free to participate (giveaway not included)

Early Bib Pickup

Pick up your bib number and giveaways:

• Date: Friday, October 2, 2026
• Time: 4:00-6:30 pm
• Location: Fleet Feet, 30679 Pinetree Blvd., Pepper Pike, OH 44124

Awards

5K Run only:

• 1st Place Overall Male & Female: $75 Fleet Feet gift cards
• 2nd Place Overall Male & Female: $50 Fleet Feet gift cards
• 3rd Place Overall Male & Female: $25 Fleet Feet gift cards
• Age Group Awards: Top 3 Male and Female finishers across age groups.

Participant Perks

Registrants will receive:

• Shirt: Commemorative “Head For The Hills” Shirt — WHILE SUPPLIES LAST (Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, or No Shirt)
• Snacks: Refreshments after the race and hike
• Massage: Provided by NovaCare Rehabilitation

Course Descriptions

5K Run: Challenge yourself on this scenic out and back course along beautiful Chagrin River Road with gently rolling hills.

1.5-mile Hike: Traverses hills, ravines, and streams through the beautifully wooded and diverse trails in Forest Ridge Preserve.

Family and Social Events

Head For The Hills is about getting more people out to experience our fantastic parks:

• Family Activities: Enjoy kids activities, crafts, and more.
• Gathering Space: Hang out in the beautiful Lang Pavilion.
• Start Time: 9:00 am EDT
• Entry Fee: Free to all (donations are appreciated)

Contact Information

For more information, call Hermes Sports & Events at (216) 623-9933.

Note: Sorry, dogs are not allowed at this race.

Race URL

For more details, visit Head For The Hills 2026 Event Page.