
Wabash Trace Running Festival
Flat, fast trail run on Iowa's beloved Wabash Trace.
Race Date
Sep 12, 2026
Location
Shenandoah, IA
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, September 12, 2026
- Location
- Shenandoah, Iowa
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 26.2 Miles, 6.2 Miles, 3.1 Miles
- Course
- Out & Back
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Wabash Trace Running Festival brings runners to Shenandoah, Iowa, for a day on the crushed-limestone Wabash Trace Nature Trail. The course traces a flat, out-and-back route through rolling farmland and tree-lined corridors, shaded enough to soften the Midwestern sun. With zero elevation gain, it's a pure speed test on a smooth surface—a rare find for trail runners chasing a fast time.
This is a small, community-driven event: recent fields hover around 80 finishers, drawing runners from roughly ten states. About a quarter of participants return year after year, a quiet testament to the race's charm. Aid stations are well-stocked, the atmosphere is laid-back, and the finish line feels earned. Whether you're after a Boston qualifier or a peaceful long run, the Wabash Trace delivers an honest, unpretentious experience.
Race-provided description
Welcome to one of the Midwest’s most scenic and runnable trail experiences. The Wabash Trace Running Festival takes you along the iconic Wabash Trace Nature Trail—a crushed limestone rail-trail that winds through rolling countryside, quiet farmland, and tree-lined stretches that feel miles away from the noise of everyday life. Whether you’re chasing a Boston Qualifier, building toward your next big race, or just looking for a beautiful place to run, this course delivers a smooth, fast, and incredibly enjoyable trail experience. With distances for everyone, this is a weekend built for runners, families, and the entire community: Full Marathon – Go the distance on a peaceful, out-and-back style course that showcases the best of the trail Half Marathon – The perfect balance of challenge and flow on a scenic stretch of the Trace
10K & 5K– Fast, approachable, and fun—ideal for newer runners or those looking to race shorter distances Free Kids Race – Because the next generation of runners deserves their moment too
Expect a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere with just the right amount of race-day energy. You’ll find well-stocked aid stations, a supportive running community, and a finish line that feels earned. This isn’t just another race—it’s a chance to unplug, move, and experience one of Iowa’s most beloved trails in a whole new way.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Start Time
8:00 AM
Giveaway
Performance Tech Tee
Start Location
800 W Sheridan Ave, Shenandoah, IA, 51601
Course Info
Course Type
Out & Back
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Rural, Forest
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
Solid Pick495 years running
~80 finishers a year
shrinking
26% returning runners
5 timing sources
runners from 10 states
winner 1:26:20
typical high 83°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
62°
Afternoon (High)
83°
Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration
0.0"
Precipitation
12 mph
Wind
61%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Wabash Trace Running Festival?
The Wabash Trace Running Festival is held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM.
Where does the Wabash Trace Running Festival take place?
It takes place in Shenandoah, Iowa.
What distances does the Wabash Trace Running Festival offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 26.2 Miles, 6.2 Miles, 3.1 Miles.
Is the Wabash Trace Running Festival course flat and good for a PR?
The Wabash Trace Running Festival is a ultra-flat, out & back course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
Explore More Journeys
Can't make it to Shenandoah? Discover other experiences that match your running style.
Search All Races

