Trail Run Xtreme is back and we're not skimping on the mud! Roots, hills, logs, mud puddles, twists and turns, and maybe even some water crossings await you along the woodsy single-track route of the Outback Trails. Bug spray will be provided before and food, fruit, and snacks afterwards with camaraderie all around. So grab your trail shoes, tighten up those laces, and get ready to let out your inner child because it's time to explore the woods and race in the dirt!
RACE DATE & TIME
Date of Race - Sunday, May 17, 2026
Check-in / Race Day Registration opens - 8:00am (CDT)
Race Start Times:
3K (ages 14 & Under) - 8:30 AM (CDT)
12K (all ages) - 9:00 AM (CDT)
RACE LOCATION
Outback Trail at Imagination Glen East
Iron Horse Heritage Trail
Portage, IN US 46386
WHAT YOU’LL RECEIVE
• Official 2026 Trail Run Xtreme Shirt (Deadline for guaranteed size availability is May 1st, 2026)
• Post-race meal (think Summer cook-out)
• Top 3 in each age group will receive a TRX age group award. Overall Male and Female and Masters Male and Female will receive special podium awards
OUR COURSE
The course is 95% shaded and wooded, with the exception of the start which goes around the soccer fields to spread the runners out. It's known for being a tough course (hence "Xtreme"). It will also be well marked with flags, signs, tape, and plenty of volunteers along the route to point you down the right path.
AWARDS
There will be awards for Overall Male/Female and Masters Male/Female.
Age Groups (1st through 3rd place will be awarded): 8 and under, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14, 15-18, 19-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-80, 80+
Clydesdale/Athena 1st through 3rd place
Awards will also be presented to the First Male and Female Finisher representing each branch of the military.
This race is a Calumet Striders Gold Cup Series Event!
YOUTH TRAIL RUNNING
As part of an initiative to promote youth trail running, special age-based pricing for the 12K distance of TRX will be available for all runners 18 and under. Registration fees will remain at just $20 and include all the same benefits.
BENEFICIARY
A portion of race proceeds benefit the organizations below. Additional donations can be made during the registration process.
Outback Trail Commission - a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Outback Trail Commission and it’s members are voluntarily committed to the maintenance and construction of trails on the Outback Trail at Imagination Glen. Their volunteers prep and mark the course as well as provide the water stops and course marshalling on race day to keep everyone safe. TRX would not be possible without their support!
FAQ
Can I run with a stroller? Absolutely not. Have you seen these trails? 😆
Are Dogs Allowed? We know there's some tough pooches out there, but dogs are not allowed out on course for this event. However, friendly, leashed dogs are welcome at the event staging area and other spectator spots.
Why isn’t my shirt guaranteed? Quantities are limited. If you're registering after 5/1, our “live” shirt inventory shows the sizes currently in stock at the time you are registering.
INTERESTED IN SPONSORING TRAIL RUN XTREME?
Earn perks like FREE race entries, features in social media posts and race emails, prominent logo placement (on the finish line arch, website, race bibs, and the official race shirt), opportunities to setup a table on-site, placement of your promotional items in racer swag bags, and more!
Please contact Race Director Kirk Cherep with any sponsorship inquires
Phone - (219) 307-5886
Email - kirk@temporuntiming.com
May 17, 2026
Distance — 3K
Type — Trail running
08:30
$20.00
May 17, 2026
Distance — 12K
Type — Trail running
09:00
$40.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for May in Portage.
Portage is a town in Northwestern Indiana. It's industrialized, but not quite as heavily as Gary to the west.
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