Run for Nature

The Run for Nature takes place on Sunday, September 27, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM at Shedd Park (453 Rogers Street, Lowell, Massachusetts). Choose the 10K trail run (no walk), 5K run/walk, or kids' 1‑mile fun run (ages 12 & under). The course mixes double‑ and single‑track trails through Shedd Park and Rogers Fort Hill Park, plus a segment along the paved Concord River Greenway. 10K runners complete the loop twice. Proceeds support Lowell Parks and Conservation Trust (LPCT) in protecting land, conserving wildlife, environmental education, and community programs. Rain or shine. No refunds. No day‑of registration.

Lowell Parks and Conservation Trust — Your Impact in 2026:

• Protecting 50+ acres for future generations, including the last family farmland in Lowell
• Conserving turtles, fish, trees, and riverways so the whole watershed can thrive
• Activating 1,000+ future conservation heroes through after‑school, STEM‑based environmental education
• Connecting community residents with nature and each other through 60+ programs engaging 4,000+ residents annually
• Urban forestry — annual tree planting to fight climate change, boost air quality, and add shade to neighborhoods

Race Day Schedule — Sunday, September 27, 2026:

• 9:00 AM — Bib pickup opens
• 9:30 AM — Kids 1‑mile Fun Run/Walk (arrive by 9:15 AM)
• 10:30 AM — 5K Run/Walk and 10K Trail Run (arrive by 10:15 AM)
• Bib pickup closes at 10:15 AM

What's Included:

• Chip timing (net time)
• Finisher medal
• Event shirt (not specified — likely included)
• One water stop on course (10K passes twice)
• Water and light snacks at finish line
• Educational displays, live animals, children's activities, and light refreshments
• Medical support on course
• Parking at Shedd Park (additional parking on Knapp Avenue and Park Avenue East lots)

Course Details — Mixed Terrain, Beautiful Scenery:

• Double‑track and single‑track trails through Shedd Park and Rogers Fort Hill Park
• Segment along the scenic paved Concord River Greenway
• Minimal sidewalks and roads connecting trails
• Course marked with flags and signs; staffed at road crossings and major turns
• Kids 1‑mile course: marked loop with adults at each turn to ensure no one gets lost
• All kids receive finishing prizes

Hydration — Bring Your Own Bottle to Reduce Waste:

• Runners are encouraged to bring their own water bottles to reduce waste
• One water stop on course (water only — no cups if you don't bring your own?)
• Finish line water and light snacks available

Accessibility — Committed to Making the Event Accessible to All:

• Contact [email protected] if ability to pay is a barrier
• Scholarships or free entries available upon request
• No one turned away for lack of funds

Event Policies — Rain or Shine, No Refunds, No Day‑of Registration:

• Event is RAIN OR SHINE — no refunds for weather
• NO REFUNDS for any reason
• NO DAY‑OF REGISTRATION — register online by September 23
• Registration closes Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET
• No refunds or transfers

2025 Top Performances (10K Men):

• John Paquet III — 39:21 (2025)
• Erich O'Neil — 41:36 (2025)
• Julio Otero — 46:11 (2025)

Nearby Attractions (post‑race — make a weekend of it in Lowell):

• Shedd Park — stay to enjoy the playground, walking paths, and picnic areas
• Lowell National Historical Park — 30+ acres of canals, mills, and history (boott Cotton Mills Museum, canal boat tours)
• Concord River Greenway — paved walking and biking path along the river
• Downtown Lowell — restaurants, shops, and the Lowell Memorial Auditorium
• UMass Lowell — university campus and Tsongas Center (hockey and events)

Contact: Lowell Parks and Conservation Trust — [email protected].