Gopher Weedon Trail Run

Race Announcement

The Friends of Weedon Island are excited to announce the 14th Annual Gopher Weedon 8K Trail Run on October 24, 2026.

Registration Information

• No Race Day Registration: You will be able to register online until 6:30 PM Friday or in-person at St Pete Feet First between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. during the advance packet pick.

Race Experience

• Unique Course: Tired of pounding the pavement on the same ole 5K race course? Go-pher something different and enjoy 8 kilometers (4.9 miles) of natural trails through one of Tampa Bay’s hidden gems!
• Scenic Views: The Gopher Weedon trail run will take runners and walkers along a journey through native Florida habitats, including gorgeous views of Tampa Bay.
• Wildlife Sightings: Runners may catch a glimpse of wildlife, including the slow-moving gopher tortoise (a threatened species for which the race was named).
• Historic Features: The course includes relic Indian mounds and dune ridges left by the preserve’s earliest inhabitants.

Post-Race Activities

• Refreshments: After the race, enjoy refreshments before strolling through the Cultural and Natural History Center.
• Learn More: Discover more about the prehistoric people and the natural environment at the center.

Support for the Cause

All proceeds from the race will benefit the Friends of Weedon Island, Inc., a 501(c)3 organization that supports environmental preservation and education at the Weedon Island Preserve.

Registered Runner Benefits

• Technical Race T-shirt: All registered runners/walkers will receive a race t-shirt.
• Professional Timing: Enjoy professional race timing and race results.
• Awards: Overall top male & female awards and age group awards will be given.
• Aid Stations: Refreshments and aid stations will be available throughout the race.

Event Details and Schedule

• Advance Packet Pick Up: Friday before the race, 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. at Feet First St. Pete, 4949 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33703.
• Race Morning Packet Pickup: 6:45 a.m. - 7:45 a.m. in the Auditorium of the Weedon Island Cultural and Natural History Center.
• Pets Policy: Pets are not permitted in the Preserve. Please do not bring them Race Day.
• Parking Information: Parking will be in the Cultural and Natural History Center Parking Lot. Space is limited. PLEASE CARPOOL with your friends.

Additional Recommendations

• Strollers: Strollers are welcomed in the Preserve: but, due to trail surfaces, NOT on the Race Course.
• Bug Spray: Bug Spray is strongly suggested.
• Race Start Time: Race begins promptly at 8:00 a.m.

Race URL

For more information, visit Gopher Weedon Trail Run.