MVRA Heritage Trail Run - 34th Annual

The MVRA Heritage Trail Run is the 34th annual trail event organized by the Mississippi Valley Running Association. Scheduled for Saturday, May 9, 2026, the race has been relocated to the Heritage Trail Pond in Dubuque, Iowa, due to ongoing construction on the main trail. The event is a community staple that encourages local fitness and provides a scenic out-and-back course for runners of all ages.

The event features three distinct distances. While the adult races are competitive and chip-timed, the kids' half-mile run is a free introductory event designed for the youngest participants. All results are calculated based on gun time.

The race takes place at Heritage Trail Pond (11330 Rupp Hollow Rd). The course is an out-and-back trail marked at every mile, with course marshals stationed at the turnaround points. In early May, Dubuque typically sees pleasant spring weather with average highs of 19°C and lows of 8°C. For the safety of participants, the use of strollers, baby joggers, bikes, dogs, or any wheeled items is strictly prohibited on the trail. Headphones are permitted but discouraged; if used, they must be kept at a low volume to ensure course instructions and marshals can be heard.

Packet pickup is available on Friday, May 8, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Flora Park, or at the race site on Saturday morning. Parking is available at the Heritage Trail lot, but carpooling is highly encouraged due to space limitations. Instead of traditional shirts, participants will receive commemorative hats (guaranteed for those registered by April 19). Water stops are provided on the 10K course at approximately the 1.5 and 4.5-mile marks. Porta-potties are located in the parking lot, and ambulance services will be on-site for emergency support. Post-race refreshments are provided to all participants upon crossing the finish line.

Awards are presented to the top overall male and female winners in each distance, as well as the top three finishers in each age group. Age brackets range from "14 & Under" up to "75+" for the 5K, and "19 & Under" to "75+" for the 10K. Members of the MVRA can use the discount code "MVRA" for a reduction in their registration fee, which will be verified during packet pickup. For additional inquiries, the event contact Elisabeth Gerardy can be reached at 563-213-1266.