What is a Tunnel to Towers 5K?
The Madison-area Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk is a non-competitive event honoring the heroic life and legacy of Stephen Siller, a New York City firefighter who lost his life on September 11, 2001. After learning of the attacks at the World Trade Center, Stephen strapped on his gear and ran through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to the Twin Towers, where he made the ultimate sacrifice.
The event is part of the National Run, Walk and Climb series sponsored by the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. The event includes an opening ceremony honoring 9/11 victims and celebrating local first responders and military members who continue to serve with courage and dedication. Following the opening ceremony, participants run or walk 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) to commemorate the fallen. More information about the Foundation can be found at t2t.org.
Where is the event? Why does it say Madison if it’s in DeForest?
The 5K will be held at Veterans Memorial Park, located at 209 N. Main Street, DeForest, WI 53532. While branded as a Madison event, the park is approximately 10 minutes from Madison’s northeast side and about 25 minutes from downtown Madison, making it easily accessible to the greater Madison area.
A drinking fountain and portable toilets will be available within Veterans Memorial Park. The park also features monuments to our nation’s military that you are welcome to visit.
What is the course like?
The 2026 course follows an updated route through the Village of DeForest trail system. The revised layout incorporates a loop to reduce congestion and minimize backtracking, offering participants a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
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The entire route is paved
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Most sections include a gravel or grass shoulder for participants who prefer those surfaces
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Curb cuts are provided for accessibility
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The course is primarily flat, with approximately 50 feet of total elevation gain/loss
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Two water stations will be present along the route with water and healthy snacks at the finish area
Will the event be professionally timed?
For 2026, a professional timing company will be used. Although the event remains non-competitive and focused on remembrance and service, participants will receive official timing results for personal reference. Please note that the course closes 2 hours after the 5K begins to account for attendee safety and to allow for clean-up in a timely manner.
Do I have to wear my bib number?
Participants must wear their bib number clearly displayed on the front of their outermost garment in the chest or abdominal area. Individuals without a visible bib will be asked to leave the course and will not be allowed to finish. The bib is also what is used to time participants, so it must be worn for this reason as well. Be sure to wear the unique bib assigned to you to ensure your time is correctly recorded.
Will there be awards for running?
Our 2026 event does not plan to offer awards. The focus remains on honoring the fallen and supporting first responders and military service members rather than competition.
What can I bring with me for the run/walk?
The course is fully accessible and accommodates:
Participants are encouraged to leave personal belongings and valuables secured in their vehicles. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Can I bring my dog or service animal?
Dogs are permitted in accordance with Village of DeForest regulations and must remain leashed at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Trained service animals are always welcome and must also comply with Village regulations.
Is there parking available?
Approximately 30 parking spaces are available at Veterans Memorial Park. Additional street parking is available within a half-mile of the park, including Acker Parkway and Holum Street. All event attendees are reminded to observe all posted parking regulations.
What registration details should I know?
Online registration will remain open until 9:00 a.m. on event day. On-site registration assistance will be available from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
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Please consider registering early as registration fees increase periodically after the event is announced with the final price increase occurring on event day
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Event shirts are not guaranteed for participants registering after May 10
Once registered, no refunds will be provided for any reason including if a participant cannot make the date or if the foundation must cancel the event due to extenuating circumstances. Registrations may be transferred to another participant until Wednesday, May 27 by contacting MadisonRun@t2t.org. When transferring a registration to another participant, shirt sizes cannot be changed.
What should I know about fundraising? Is it required?
Fundraising is not required to participate. Participants are encouraged to fundraise in support of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Upon registering online, participants will be able to set up an individual fundraising page if desired. As a gesture of gratitude, the Foundation offers amazing incentives. Participants are encouraged to explore employer matching gifts to maximize their contributions. Check out the Fundraising Guide for the latest information. Please note, registration fees do not count toward fundraising totals.
What are my options for packet pick up?
Early packet pickup will be available on Friday, May 29, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Fleet Feet Sun Prairie (2816 Prairie Lakes Drive #101, Sun Prairie, WI 53590).
Event-day packet pickup will be available on Saturday, May 30, from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park (209 N. Main Street, DeForest, WI 53532).
Packets may be picked up by another individual with a copy of the participant’s registration receipt.
I’m visiting from out-of-town. Do you have any hotel recommendations?
There are numerous hotels in the area. Spark by Hilton Madison Central is a proud sponsor of our event and is offering a special rate of $79 per night for event travelers. The hotel is located at 102 E. Rusk Avenue, Madison, WI 53713, about a 25-minute drive from the start/finish line.
To receive the special rate, book by Friday, May 8, using the link T2T at Spark by Hilton Madison Central, or call 608-284-1234 and ask for the Tunnel to Towers 5K block. For questions, please contact the hotel directly. Thank you for supporting our sponsors!
How can I learn about my business becoming a financial sponsor or donating goods or services to the event?
Organizations interested in sponsoring the event through a financial contribution or by donating goods or services should contact MadisonRun@t2t.org for more information. Various sponsorship levels are available with included perks. The event team aims to respond to email inquiries within 48 hours or two business days.
How can I volunteer for the event?
Volunteers are needed for event-day operations. Individuals may sign up through the event website or by emailing MadisonRun@t2t.org. Verification letters for service hours are available upon request following the event.
What measures are being taken to promote health and safety?
The event will comply with all applicable local and state health guidelines in effect at the time of the event. An emergency medical service team will be present on site, with radio communication available throughout the course for emergency medical needs.