Tröegs Rugged Trail 5K Run for Conservation

Race Overview

Celebrate with us at our annual Tröegs Rugged Trail Run for Conservation! We are geared up for making this another successful fundraiser in support of the Ned Smith Center's lands and trails system. The Center boasts a beautiful woodland setting with over 9 miles of trails winding through 500+ acres of land, a scenic bridge over the Wiconisco Creek, a children's natural play area, three rotating art galleries featuring the art of Ned Smith and various national and local artists, a gift shop, and innovative educational programming for all ages. The Center is thrilled to partner with Tröegs Brewing Company for this exciting event! All proceeds will support the Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art.

Race Details

• Date: September 19, 2026
• Location: Ned Smith Center For Nature & Arts, Millersburg, PA
• Race Start: 5:00 PM for the Hopback Trail, 5:10 PM for the Rugged Trail
• After-Party: Live music, basket raffle, food and drink, and vendors

Dog Policy

While the Ned Smith Center is pet friendly, we do not allow dogs to participate in the race. They may cheer their runner on from the finish line and enjoy the after party. Dogs may also be spectators around the trails.

Social Media Sharing

This year we will feature your own photos #TroegsRugged5K or you can tag @TroegsBeer X or tag the Ned Smith Center on Facebook @Ned_Smith_Center. Please share your photos of the event for more race day fun.

Registration Information

• Early Bird Registration: $45 for ages 13+ (12 and under is $15) until April 30, 2026
• Standard Registration: Increases to $50 on May 1, 2026
• Day-of Registration: $55 for ages 13+ (12 and under is $20)
• Included with Registration: Rugged Trail Run 5K t-shirt, a pizza token, a Tröegs Rugged Trail Ale token, and a SWAG bag

Packet Pick-up / Check-in

Runners may pick up their packets and check in early at the Ned Smith Center Gift Shop from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM on Friday, September 18th, or on race day from 3:30 PM to 4:45 PM. For adult runners and attendees celebrating post race at the beer stand, please plan to show your ID and receive a wristband prior to the race. IDs will NOT be checked post race at the beer stand. Snacks to help you fuel up and water bottles are welcome, but please refrain from bringing other outside food and beverages. Thank you for your cooperation.

Race Times

• 5:00 PM: Start for Hopback Trail
• 5:10 PM: Start for Rugged Trail
• Post-Race Party: Begins at 5:30 PM, ending at 10:00 PM

Race Routes

• The HopBack Trail: A walker-friendly route for beginning and intermediate trail runners along Wiconisco Creek.
• The Rugged Trail: A challenging route with a 700 ft elevation climb through the woods of Berry Mountain.
• Volunteer Support: Race volunteers will be along each route to ensure competitors are on the correct path.

T-Shirts and Awards

• Shirts: Unisex XS - XXL available. Must register by August 16th to guarantee a shirt in requested size.
• Awards: Top male and female runners in each race receive Overall Winners spots and special prizes.
• Age Group Winners: Awards for top male and female runners in each age category.
• Post-Race Party: Live music, food for purchase, and limited edition Rugged Trail Ale.

Food and Beverages

• Participants: All race participants receive a FREE pour of Tröegs beer (age 21+) or Root Beer (under 21).
• Food: A FREE slice of pizza from DB's Pizzeria & Pub, Halifax.
• Snacks: Trail mix, bananas, and other goodies available after the race.

More Information

For additional details and updates, please visit the official race page.