Head For The Hills!

Save

Feature

Claim

Forest Ridge Preserve, Moreland Hills OH

Saturday, October 3rd, 2026

Event 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!

Moreland Hills is home to many of the area’s most prized and pristine green spaces. These include the beautiful 142-acre Forest Ridge Preserve and the Lang Pavilion (where this event will take place), sections of Cleveland Metroparks South Chagrin Reservation, U.S. President James A. Garfield birth site park and cabin, and more. 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.

Parks Commission Mission

The Parks Commission’s mission is to support preservation, improvements, and enjoyment of our local parks for all. Proceeds from last year’s Head For The Hills event helped to provide materials for:

Resurfacing: Improving the Forest Ridge trails.
Installation: New benches along the trail network.
Improvements: Various other enhancements in the park.
Impact: Supporting hundreds of community members who visit our parks each year.

Race Features

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. Experience the trails of Forest Ridge Preserve on our 1.5 mile self-guided hike — bring the whole family!

Commemorative Shirt: Participants in the 5K and hike will receive a commemorative Head For The Hills shirt (only for those registered by September 15th).
Prizes: 5K competitors have a chance to win overall and age group prizes.
Activities: Free kids activities, crafts and more.
Care Services: NovaCare Rehabilitation will provide on-site care.

Start Times

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

Timing System

5K run: MyLaps BibTag Chip timed

Registration Fees

5K run: $30.00 (Kids 6-15: $15.00)
1.5 Mile Hike: $30.00 (Kids ages 6-15: $15.00)
All other participants: No registration required (donations appreciated)
Kids 5 and under: Free to participate (giveaway not included)

Early Packet Pickup

4:00-6:30 pm, Friday, October 3, 2025, at Fleet Feet, 30679 Pinetree Blvd., Pepper Pike, OH 44124

Awards

5K Run only:

Top Overall Male & Female: $75 Fleet Feet gift cards.
2nd Overall Male & Female: $50 Fleet Feet gift cards.
3rd Overall Male & Female: $25 Fleet Feet Gift Cards.
Age Group Prizes: Awards to top 3 Male and Female finishers in each age group: 14 & Under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70 & Over.

Run/Hike Registrants Receive

Shirt: Commemorative "Head For The Hills!" Shirt!
Post-race: Snacks and refreshments.
Giveaways: Chances for various other giveaways.
Care: Massage and stretching provided by NovaCare Rehabilitation.

Course Descriptions

5K Run

Challenge yourself on this scenic out and back course along beautiful Chagrin River Road. Gently rolling hills, lovely homes and early fall colors welcome competitive racers and anyone seeking an enjoyable workout regardless of pace.

1.5-Mile Hike

Traverses hills, ravines, and streams through the beautifully wooded and diverse trails in Forest Ridge Preserve. You can make the hike a self-guided experience at your own pace.

Family and Social Events

Head For The Hills! Is about getting more people out to experience our fantastic parks. Bring the whole family and enjoy kids activities and crafts, and more. Or just hang out in the beautiful Lang Pavilion enjoying the warmth of the fireplace and meeting your Moreland Hills neighbors!