River’s Edge Trail Half Marathon

Race Overview

• Distance: Enjoy the beautiful Iowa River Greenbelt with this 13.1 mile paved loop beginning in Eldora.
• Route: The race takes you along the River's Edge Trail to Steamboat Rock, returning through Pine Lake State Park.
• Start/End Location: The race will start and end at Memorial Park, located near the Welcome Center.
• Beneficiary: Proceeds from the run will be donated to the continued progress on the River’s Edge Trail.

Crowd Support

• Charm: Be greeted by our small town charm along the route and at the start and finish line.
• Cheering: Your fans will have numerous opportunities to cheer you on along the way.
• Views: Enjoy some beautiful views as you run.
• Post Race Meal: Enjoy post race refreshments and a warm breakfast of pancakes and sausage served fresh after your finish.

Registration Note

• Shirt Guarantee: Those who register after 9/8/26 will not be guaranteed a race shirt and swag bag items.
• Extras: A limited number of extra shirts will be available to late registrants on a first-come first-serve basis.
• Contact: You may email the race organizers for more information about registration.

Packet Pick-Up

• Availability: Packet pick-up options will be available on Friday evening and the morning of the race.
• Communication: Registered participants will receive an email with details on the time and place of packet pick up.

Start Times

• Walking Start: Participants who choose to walk the half marathon will begin at 7 am.
• Running Start: All runners and run/walkers will start at 8 am.

Parking

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

Bathrooms

• Facilities: Restrooms are available at Memorial Park and in the Welcome Center, both located near the start/finish area.
• Route Opportunities: There will be numerous bathroom opportunities available along the route. Stay tuned for exact locations.

Water Stations

• Availability: Numerous water stops will be manned by different volunteers and organizations along the route.
• Details: Stay tuned for a more detailed list of water station locations along the route.

Awards

• Completion Medals: All pre-registered finishers will receive custom locally crafted wooden finisher medals.
• Award Categories: Top awards will be given to the overall top two male and female finishers.
• Exclusions: Awards will not be separated by runners and walkers nor into specific age groups.

Post Race Refreshments

• Available Options: Hydrate and refuel with grab and go items such as water, Gatorade, chocolate milk, bananas, and granola bars.
• Breakfast: After cooling off, enjoy a warm breakfast of pancakes and sausage cooked fresh by our local Eldora Kiwanis Club.
• Inclusion: The meal is included in your registration.
• Public Participation: Spectators and the public are welcome to enjoy a warm meal as well with a freewill donation to the Kiwanis Club.

For more information, visit the race's official page: River’s Edge Trail Half Marathon.