Run for Raptors Trail Race

🏃‍♂️ Race Date

Saturday, August 1st, 2026

🌧️ Rain Date

Saturday, August 8th, 2026

🏅 Races Overview

• 11K Run: 7:30AM start time | ROUTE
• 5K Walk/Run: 8 AM start time | ROUTE

📅 Event Information

Thank you for your interest in the 10th annual Run for Raptors Trail Race in Swope Park!

Please read more about the event below.

✉️ Contact

Please email run4raptors@:lakesidenaturecenter.org with any questions.

🎫 Packet Pickup

• Early Pickup: Lakeside Nature Center, 7/31 from 10 AM – 4 PM.
• Race Day Pickup: Lake Lodge from 6:30 AM – 7:45 AM.
• Arrive Early: If picking up on race day, allow time for potential lines.

🏞️ Routes

We will be doing a separate 10K loop once again for 2026! Due to changes in the trails, the course is now slightly longer than a 10K. The actual race distance is closer to an 11K, or 6.8 miles.

📍 Location

• Race Start: Lake Lodge at Camp Lake of the Woods in Swope Park (38.991269, -94.518709).
• Directions: Entrance off Oldham Rd SE of Hillcrest Rd. Signs will be present.
• Google Map: Available on the RunSignUp page.

🚗 Parking

Parking attendants will assist starting at 6:30 AM. Limited parking around the lodge, so carpooling is encouraged. Lakeside Nature Center's parking lot is available if you want to meet others there.

🦉 Raptors

Lakeside Staff and Volunteers will be at the race with several educational raptors (owls, falcons, hawk, and vulture). Pictures and questions are welcome!

🎟️ Raffle

• Start Time: Raffle around 8:45 AM.
• Tickets: All racers receive 1 ticket upon registration: additional can be purchased for $2.
• Payment: Cash, check, and credit accepted (minimum $10 for credit).

💧 Hydration

Please drink plenty of fluids leading up to the race. A water fountain will be available at the Lake Lodge, with one water station along the trail. We recommend those running the 10K bring their own hydration unit!

⏰ Late Starts

There will be no late starts for any of the race distances due to course crossings.

🎒 Bag Drop

A secured area will be available behind packet pickup for leaving personal items.

🚻 Bathrooms

Bathrooms are located in the Lake Lodge.

🛤️ Trail Tips

For those new to trail running... it is easier on your joints, and the natural beauty makes the time fly. Be mindful of your footing—watch for roots, rocks, and fallen logs. If there is moisture, rocks can be slippery. The 10K run has more rocky stretches than the 5K.

🤝 Trail Etiquette

Be considerate of runners behind you. If being passed, please step off the trail to your right. Communication is key, so earbuds are not recommended. Consider using only one earbud if you need music.

🌧️ Rain Date

Our rain date for 2026 will be the following Saturday, August 8. Check your email, Facebook, and the Registration Page for cancellations the evening before or morning of the race.

💰 Registration Information

Prices will increase on 5/1/26 and again on 7/1/26. Day-of registration may be available if capacity allows.

🏆 Awards

First Place male and female runners in each distance (excluding walkers) will receive free race entry next year!

🐶 Pets

Due to heat and live birds, dogs are not allowed in the race but can cheer from the sidelines if leashed.