Head for the Hills!

🌳 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

• Mission: To support preservation, improvements, and enjoyment of our local parks for all.
• Last Year's Proceeds: Helped provide materials for resurfacing and improving the Forest Ridge trails.
• This Year's Efforts: Support repair of picnic tables, landscaping improvements at Moreland Hills Veterans Park, and more.
• Community Impact: Initiatives will impact the hundreds of community members who visit our parks each year.

🏃 Race Details

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!

🎽 Race Amenities

• 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.
• On-Site Care: NovaCare Rehabilitation will provide on-site care to help participants perform their best.

⏰ 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
9:00 am - Kids activities 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 Others: No registration required (donations appreciated)
• Free Participation: Any kids age 5 and under (giveaway not included)

📦 Early Packet Pickup

4:00-6:30 pm
Friday, October 3, 2025
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 Groups: 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.

👕 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!

📅 More Information

Call Hermes Sports & Events at (216) 623-9933.

Moreland Hills Parks Registration

Sorry, dogs are not allowed at this race.