
Wabash Trace Running Festival is a running race on September 12, 2026 in Shenandoah, IA, with entry fees from $35 to $125.
From the Organizer
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. Starts and finishes in downtown Shenandoah.
Half Marathon – The perfect balance of challenge and flow on a scenic stretch of the Trace. Starts in downtown Imogene and finishes in Shenandoah. Buses will take runners from Shenandoah (finish line) to Imogene. Buses will run starting at 6:40AM - 7:20AM.
10K & 5K– Fast, approachable, and fun—ideal for newer runners or those looking to race shorter distances. Start and finish at downtown Shenandoah.
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.
Early packet pickup will be held at The Depot (101 N Railroad St, Shenandoah, IA 51601) on Friday 9/11/26 from 5-7PM.
Race morning packet pickup will also be held at The Depot (101 N Railroad St, Shenandoah, IA 51601) on Saturday 9/12/26 from 6-7:15AM. There WILL NOT be packet pickup in Imogene for the half marathon - all half marathon runners need to collect their packet before busing to Imogene for their start
Gear check will be available at The Depot as well. Half Marathon participants will drop off their gear bags at the start line of their race (Imogene) and those bags will get transported back to the finish line.
Post Race Festival will be held at The Depot - food, drinks, and music!
Weather
Live forecast from the U.S. National Weather Service.
Race Day
Saturday, 9/12
High
88°
Low
61°
Conditions
Slight chance showers and thunderstorms
Chance of Rain
34%
Wind
6 to 12 mph
Host City
Population
4,913
as of 2023
City Elevation
1,044 ft
Nearest Airport
OMA
Eppley Airfield · 47 mi
Time Zone
Central Time
From Endurance Grid
A small town race. Lodging near the start could be limited, so book early.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Wabash Trace Running Festival, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
6
Days to train
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From Endurance Grid
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.
From 5K to marathon, running races are an accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Coming Up
Wabash Trace Running Festival
Sep 12, 2026