Discovery Dash 5K/10K and 1 Mile Fun Run

Event Overview

Looking for the most unusual fall race in the world?

Lace up for the 2026 Discovery Dash on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, at Discovery Park of America. This year, experience the 50-acre heritage park in full autumn splendor, complete with crisp fall air and The Settlement transformed into a festive Pumpkin Village.

Race Route

• Scenic Features: The route meanders through a man-made river, waterfalls, bridges and other scenic features.
• Historical Landmarks: No other course lets you dash past a 120-year-old church, an 1800s frontier settlement, a reproduction of an early 19th-century town and a complete vintage train station.

Event Highlights

• Check-in: From race-day check-in and pre-race entertainment to the inflatable archway finish line, you won’t want to miss a moment.
• Finisher Certificates: All participants will receive finisher certificates.
• Awards: Winner medals will be presented.

Awards Categories

• Age Groups: Awards will be presented in the 5K and 10K for males and females.
• Categories: 12 and under, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70 and over.

Schedule

• 6:30-7:45 a.m. — Registration
• 8 a.m. — 10K begins
• 8:30 a.m. — 5K begins
• 9 a.m. — 1-mile fun run begins
• 9:30 a.m. — Awards ceremony

Registration Fees

• 5K and 1-mile Fun Run: Before Sept. 15 is $25: includes a Discovery Dash T-shirt and two complimentary admission tickets to Discovery Park for the day. After Sept. 16, fee increases to $30.
• 10K: Before Sept. 15 is $30: includes a Discovery Dash T-shirt and two complimentary admission tickets to Discovery Park for the day. After Sept. 16, fee increases to $35.
• T-shirts: Available while supplies last.

Sponsors

Sponsors include Thompson CAT Machinery.

More Information

For more details, visit the race website: Discovery Dash 5K/10K and 1 Mile Fun Run.