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Date:
Tue, May 05, 2026 at 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location:
1100 N Mineral Springs Rd
Chesterton, Indiana
46304
United States
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Links:
runnersforpubliclands.org Register at runsignup.com
Tags:
Run Trail

Runner's for Public Lands (RPL) is excited to partner with Trailblazer Running and the National Park Service (NPS) to present the 2026 Indiana Dunes Trail Work Series.

This project brings our local community of runners together to learn about and care for the living landscapes we run with. Through repetitive, hands-on service events with an educational component, we can share ecological values and create strong connections that inspire runners to care for the people and places they love.

This Trail Work Series will include 4 independent trail work events, each with its own unique educational component. Based on the location of each trail work we have identified a relevant topic to learn about. The educational topics may include native vs. invasive flora, trail building/maintaining, and the importance of wetlands. We are working with the National Park Service to provide expert insights on these topics. Participants are not required to attend all four events but are encouraged to, and can earn prizes/incentives for attending multiple events.

Each event will be approved by the NPS and led by Trailblazer Running volunteer leaders and NPS Staff and volunteers. All volunteers will be required to sign an NPS waiver before volunteering.

Runners for Public Lands is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that builds inclusive running communities dedicated to protecting the environment. To bring our mission to life, we create pathways in local communities that connect runners with opportunities to learn about the lands and the people they are running with. We develop programs, resources, and events in partnership with cultural and environmental experts, established land stewarding organizations, indigenous leaders, and other non-profits. RPL’s mission doesn’t stop at awareness and education. Our ultimate goal is to inspire and spark action so that more runners want to get involved and actively care for the people in their community and the places where they run.

More races nearby

  • 2026 The Trail Running Film Festival [trailfilmfest.com] [Register at raceroster.com]

    Sat, Apr 18, 2026 at 5:30 PM

    Description

    Trail Running Film Festival 2026

    • I will be hosting the Trail Running Film Festival again this year and love for you to join us

    -The festival will be held at Hawthorne Park inside the community...

    Trail Running Film Festival 2026

    • I will be hosting the Trail Running Film Festival again this year and love for you to join us

    -The festival will be held at Hawthorne Park inside the community center, 500 Ackerman Dr, Porter, IN 46304

    -Snacks, Deathwish coffee and pop are available with the pizza arriving at 7:00 pm

    -Doors open at 4:30 pm Central Time. The first 18 minutes of the film fest has global advertiser spots which is about 18 minutes so I will play those beginning 5:30 pm. The official films will begin after that. The first half contains 3 films running for about 1 hour. We will take an intermission for 10 minutes so you can grab beverages, pizza and visit our local sponsor’s tables. We will have our raffle at intermission. The 2nd half has 3 films as well and it is about 55 minutes so we should finish about 8:30 pm.

    -We will have a fun run on Saturday, April 18th at 8:00 am more details to follow

    -Proceeds from the film festival benefit the Chesterton High School Boys Cross Country Team

    -If you are interested in sponsoring the film fest please contact me at stofko121@yahoo.com

    The purpose Crazy Legs Race Series (CLRS) is to promote non-pavement/pavement races in the Northwest Indiana region through the development and management of new and existing races. At all our events you will experience fun and challenging course design in a low-key atmosphere. Races will be held in parks or areas in the Lake, Porter and Laporte counties.

    3.7 km from Chesterton
    500 Ackerman Drive, Porter County, Indiana, 46304, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    Fun Run Run Trail

  • The Second Annual Run The Spectrum 5K [runsignup.com]

    Sat, Apr 25, 2026 at 9:00 AM

    Description

    Join us on April 25th, 2026 for the Second Annual Run the Spectrum 5K at Coffee Creek Water Preserve in Chesterton Indiana . A community celebration of inclusion, awareness, and support for...

    Join us on April 25th, 2026 for the Second Annual Run the Spectrum 5K at Coffee Creek Water Preserve in Chesterton Indiana . A community celebration of inclusion, awareness, and support for individuals and families affected by autism. This uplifting event welcomes runners, walkers, families, and supporters of all ages and abilities.

    Participants can enjoy area featuring local nonprofits dedicated to autism support and advocacy, who will be on-site handing out resources, information, and giveaways. Stick around for complimentary snacks and beverages, perfect for refueling and connecting with fellow participants.

    Whether you're running for a cause, supporting a loved one, or simply enjoying a day of community fun, the Run the Spectrum 5K is an inspiring way to make a difference. Lace up, show up, and help us celebrate the diverse and beautiful spectrum of our community!

    4.1 km from Chesterton
    2401 Village Point, Chesterton, Indiana, 46304, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    5k Run Walk

  • Trail Run Xtreme [runsignup.com]

    Sun, May 17, 2026 at 8:30 AM

    Description

    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...

    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

    7.3 km from Chesterton
    2190 N. St Rd 149, Portage, Indiana, 46386, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    3k 12k Run Trail

  • Chesterton Extra Mile Youth Running Camp [shop.extramilefitnesscompany.com] [Register at runsignup.com]

    Mon, Jun 08, 2026 at 6:00 PM

    Description

    Extra Mile Fitness Company YOUTH RUNNING CAMP! 🏃🏃‍♀️

    For ages 5 -13

    All abilities are welcome!

    Camp Dates: MONDAYS

    June 8

    June 15

    June 22

    July 6

    AND RACE DAY: One Mile Challenge July 11th.

    Practices...

    Extra Mile Fitness Company YOUTH RUNNING CAMP! 🏃🏃‍♀️

    For ages 5 -13

    All abilities are welcome!

    Camp Dates: MONDAYS

    June 8

    June 15

    June 22

    July 6

    AND RACE DAY: One Mile Challenge July 11th.

    Practices are 6:00-7:00 pm - arrive early for check-in at 5:45pm

    Location:

    Shelter 3, Dogwood Park S 23rd St, Chesterton, IN 46304

    Our 4-week Youth Running Camp introduces youth to running in a safe and fun environment. These camps are a grassroots program, designed to break down barriers and ensure every child has the opportunity to participate. Additionally, we give back by supporting local middle and high school Cross Country programs, donating proceeds from the One Mile Challenge. This event introduces over 500 youth to running and cross country, fostering a positive experience that we hope will inspire a lifelong love for the sport.

    Campers will have 4 weeks of training practices and will compete in the Extra Mile One Mile Challenge Race on Saturday, July 11th.

    Parent/Information meeting:

    Monday June 8, (day 1 of camp)

    Check in will start at 5:30pm, followed by a 10-15 min parent meeting.

    Shelter 3, Dogwood Park S 23rd St, Chesterton, IN 46304

    1.6 km from Chesterton
    1100 North & 23rd St., Porter County, Indiana, 46304, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    1 Miles Run

  • Portage Extra Mile Youth Running Camp [shop.extramilefitnesscompany.com] [Register at runsignup.com]

    Thu, Jun 11, 2026 at 6:00 PM

    Description

    Extra Mile Fitness Company YOUTH RUNNING CAMP! 🏃🏃‍♀️

    Ages 5-13

    Camp Dates:

    Thursdays June 11, June 18, June 25, and July 9, AND RACE DAY: One Mile Challenge Saturday July 11th

    Practices are 6:00-7:00...

    Extra Mile Fitness Company YOUTH RUNNING CAMP! 🏃🏃‍♀️

    Ages 5-13

    Camp Dates:

    Thursdays June 11, June 18, June 25, and July 9, AND RACE DAY: One Mile Challenge Saturday July 11th

    Practices are 6:00-7:00 pm - check-in at 5:45pm

    Camp Location:

    Woodland Park - 2100 Willowcreek Rd, Portage IN 46368 - WIGWAM SHELTER

    Goal Race:

    Extra Mile ONE MILE CHALLENGE: Saturday, July 11- Fee includes youth entry into Extra Mile One Mile Challenge including race shirt!

    Our 4-week Youth Running Camp introduces youth to running in a safe and fun environment. Campers will have 4 weeks of training practices and will compete in the Extra Mile One Mile Challenge Race on Saturday, July 11.

    Parent/Information Meeting - Thursday June 11, (day 1 of camp) Check in will start at 5:30pm, followed by a 10-15 min parent meeting. At Woodland Park - 2100 Willowcreek Rd, Portage IN 46368 - WIGWAM SHELTER

    8.2 km from Chesterton
    2100 Willowcreek Rd, Portage, Indiana, 46368, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    1 Miles Run

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