From the Organizer
This hidden gem takes place the first weekend in December following the single-track dirt trail of the Sycamore Trail along the Des Moines River. Unpredictable winter weather in Iowa has brought rain, snow, and negative temps but has also brought picturesque 50-degree days and some of the fastest dirt trails in the state.
This race caters to veteran and new trail runners alike. With rolling single track, vast views of the Des Moines River and ever present wildlife, you don't want to miss your chance at a Des Moines tradition of capping off the racing season. Register early as entries are capped at 300 participants.
Events
Weather
Typical Conditions
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
39°
Typical Low
22°
Chance of Rain
25%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Des Moines Wsfo-Johnston, 5 mi from the venue.
Host City
About Johnston, IA
Population
24,196
as of 2023
Elevation
831 ft
Nearest Airport
DSM
Des Moines International Airport · 10 mi
Time Zone
Central Time
From Endurance Grid
A mid-size host city. Enough lodging and amenities to keep race weekend easy, without big-city sprawl.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
What Are You
Waiting For?
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Sycamore 8, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
Coming Up
More Running races near Johnston, IA
Capital City Pride Stride 5K
5K
6 miles away
Four Seasons Festival Road Run
6 miles away
The Des Moines Donut Mile
5 miles away
Clover Dash 5k
5K
6 miles away
From Endurance Grid
About This Sport
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
Running
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the Sycamore 8?
- Sycamore 8 is a running race held in Johnston, Iowa on December 5, 2026. It is one of the many endurance events listed on Endurance Grid, a multi-sport endurance event calendar covering running races, triathlons, HYROX, and more endurance sports across the United States. Find more running races near you or explore our sports guides to learn what race day actually feels like.
- When and where is the Sycamore 8?
- Saturday, December 5, 2026 in Johnston, Iowa at 4301 NW 66th Ave, Johnston, IA. Check the event page for exact start times and wave schedules.
- How do I register for the Sycamore 8?
- Registration is handled through the event's registration page. Confirm pricing and distances there, and sign up.
Sycamore 8
Dec 5, 2026