Rockin Rockwoods 53K and 1/2 Marathon

The Rockin' Rockwoods 53K and Half Marathon returns to Greensfelder County Park in Wildwood, Missouri on September 26th, 2026. This annual trail race presented by Terrain Trail Runners is a part of the 50K MASHUP TRAILRACE SERIES and offers unique distances for all levels of runners. Hosted within the scenic Green Rock Trail system, this event attracts participants from across Missouri and beyond.
On the morning of September 26th, runners will gather at Greensfelder County Park to start their journey along challenging trail routes characterized by steep grades and technical terrain. The hard pack dirt paths transition into loose uneven rock sections with numerous creek crossings that add an element of adventure to each mile covered. Participants can expect a rigorous course layout designed for experienced off-road enthusiasts.
Rockin' Rockwoods has been running since 2015, making this the twelfth edition and solidifying its status as one of Missouri's premier trail races. In partnership with the Trail Mix Fund, Terrain Trail Runners aims to increase diversity in trail racing by offering free race entry to underprivileged runners who might not otherwise have access due to financial constraints or social barriers.
The Rockin' Rockwoods 53K and Half Marathon course winds through nearly 95% single-track trails filled with rocks, roots, creek crossings, and an elevation gain of approximately 2200 feet for the half marathon distance. Runners tackling the full 53K route will face even more challenging terrain as they complete two out-and-back sections totaling a grueling yet rewarding ascent of around 5,200 feet.
The weather on race day typically sees temperatures ranging between 16.5°C and 27.4°C with an average humidity level at 69%, resulting in conditions that feel like the temperature itself due to minimal wind speeds averaging about 8 kilometers per hour. Trail surfaces are expected to be hard and dry, which can vary depending on recent precipitation of around 3 millimeters.

In preparation for race day, participants must register online at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=137426 before September 20th or pay cash-only fees ($90.00) starting from 6AM on the morning of the event if swag availability allows. Bib pick-up is available one week prior to race day at Greensfelder County Park, where participants can collect their packets after presenting a valid ID.
All runners should meet at Muckerman Shelter within Greensfelder County Park for both start and finish lines located along Hencken Road in Wildwood, Missouri. Age requirements vary by distance but generally open up opportunities starting from ages 18 years old. It's essential that first-time participants familiarize themselves with the challenging course layout to prepare adequately.
The Rockin' Rockwoods trail race is a must-attend event for serious trail runners seeking a unique challenge in Wildwood, Missouri on September 26th, 2026. The combination of scenic trails and competitive spirit makes this an unforgettable experience that highlights the beauty of local natural landscapes while supporting important community initiatives through partnerships like Trail Mix Fund.