In 5 days · Sat, Aug 1, 2026
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Saturday, August 1st, 2026
Moorehead Park, Ida Grove IA
Ultra
65–82°F · low rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 0 of the last 10 years
2025
59–72°F
dry
2024
69–82°F
dry
2023
69–86°F
dry
2022
64–86°F
dry
2021
61–77°F
dry
2020
61–80°F
dry
2019
63–81°F
dry
2018
63–81°F
dry
2017
66–84°F
dry
2016
70–82°F
dry
Best months to race in Iowa →
Race-day forecast · Saturday, Aug 1
Sunny · 61–91°F
Saturday, Aug 1starts near 61°F · 5% chance of rain · wind up to 10 mph
About this race
Race Overview
Please join us for the running of the Trail of the Dragon! This run will take place along with the Moorehead Park Trail Mazathon. Course will consist of 10 mile loops on single track dirt and mowed meadow through the rolling hills of our beautiful historic park. Participants can expect challenging hills and beautiful scenery while running well-marked and maintained trails. You will be running on some old stage coach trails past the first homestead which served as the stage coach stop, church and doctor/hospital. Pay your respects as you visit the cemetery of our first settlers and run past a one room school house.
Race Details
- Distance Options: Participants can sign up for the 50K, which consists of three 10 mile loops, with a 1 mile out and back: or the 50 Mile option, which consists of five 10 mile loops.
- Finisher Medals: Finisher medals will be awarded to all finishers.
- Elevation: The actual elevation is around 1000 ft. of climb per loop, not the previously stated 600 ft.
- Drop Bags: There will be a designated spot for drop bags at the start/finish line and at the mid-way aid station. Please mark your bag with your bib number.
Course Information
- Water Crossings: There are no water crossings, but your shoes may get wet going through the meadows depending on dew.
- Flashlight Drop: A drop box for flashlights or headlamps will be provided at the mid-way station for 50 mile participants.
- Aid Stations: Two fully stocked and manned aid stations will be on the loop: one at the start/finish and another at around mile 5.
- Water Stations: There will also be three unmanned water stations along the loop, located at around miles 2, 4, and 8, providing water only.
Packet Pick-up
- Date & Location: Packet pick-up will be at the Conservation Center at Moorehead Park from 4-8pm on Friday, July 31.
- 50 Mile Participants: Can pick up packets from 5-5:30am on race day, with a meeting at 5:45 and start at 6:00am.
- 50K Participants: Can pick up packets from 5-6:30am on race day, with a meeting at 6:45 and start at 7:00am.
- Preparation: Please arrive early to allow enough time to prepare for your designated start time!
Pasta Meal
- Timing: A pasta meal will be offered at packet pick-up from 5:30-7:30 on Friday, July 31.
- Donation: This meal will be available for a free will donation.
- Beverages: You can bring your favorite beverage: water and iced tea will be provided.
- Socializing: This is a great opportunity to meet and mingle with fellow runners and volunteers.
Event Cause
All proceeds from this event will be donated to the Ida County Conservation Foundation. The Foundation's mission is dedicated to fostering relationships between residents and our natural world.
Registration Information
- Policy: Your registration fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Lodging Accommodations
If you are looking for lodging accommodations, here are some options:
- Super 8 Motel: #712-364-3988, located in Ida Grove, within two miles of the park.
- Castle Town Inn: #712-364-3317, also located in Ida Grove, within two miles of the park.
- Boulders Inn & Suites: #712-368-6200, located in Holstein, IA, approximately 11 miles away.
- Camping: Primitive camping is available at Moorehead Park: Cobb Park offers electrical hook-ups and hot showers.
For More Information
For further details, please visit the official race page: Trail of the Dragon 50K/50 Mile Run.
Course map
Train with a club
Run clubs near Ida Grove to train with before race day.
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