Event Overview
Oakadoke Trail Runs is your summer trail running tradition, and the post-race celebration is every bit as good as the miles that come before it! Set on the beautiful single-track of Creekside Trails in Valparaiso, this one's as much about the hang as the run. Lush greenery, pond views, rolling grasslands, and just enough twists, dips, and bridge crossings to keep things interesting from start to finish.
Three distances mean there's a spot for everyone — first-timers, regulars, and those of you who just want an excuse to be outside all morning. The 4-mile gives you a taste of the vast trail system. The 9-mile takes you through the best Creekside has to offer. The 18-mile does it all twice, and you'll absolutely love each lap.
The trails aren't flat, but they're not out to break you either. Expect variety: smooth stretches and rooty patches, gentle climbs and quick descents — the kind of course that keeps your brain as engaged as your legs.
After the finish, stick around. Food, cold drinks, and good company await. Camping is available onsite the night before and after the race, so there's no rush to be anywhere
Race Information
Start Times
Saturday August 1st, 2026
8:00 AM - 18 Mile Start
9:00 AM - 9 Mile Start
9:30 AM - 4 Mile Start
Cut-Off Times
10:45 AM - Must leave halfway point (18 Mile race only)
1:30 PM - Overall cut-off at finish line / Races End
Start/Finish Line Location
Twin Creeks Farm
2251 Clifford Rd
Valparaiso, IN 46385
See event website for more detailed race information
Gender Divisions & Awards
At Trailblazer Running we strive to create and foster a culture of inclusivity. We will accept each entrant’s declared gender at face value, and no additional supporting evidence is required. Entrants may register as Male, Female, or Non-Binary for our races. In addition, we provide an opportunity in the registration process for transgender and non-binary runners to express their desired pronouns.
Every participant receives custom awards as they finish their race. The top 3 male & female finishers at each distance will receive a podium award in addition to their finisher’s award. At this time there will be no additional awarding in the non-binary category. For more info on this, please reference our Transgender & Non-Binary Runner Policy.
Youth Trail Running
In support of the USATF MUT Youth Initiative, a program in cooperation with the American Trail Running Association (ATRA) to promote youth trail running, special age-based pricing for the Oakadoke Trail Runs will be available for all runners 19 and under. Registration fees will remain at just $25 and $40 (for the 4M and 9M, respectively), +tax & fees, and include all the same benefits.
The Youth category also has a limited number of free entries available by request. Email the Race Director (info@trailblazerrunning.co) for more information.
Trail Mix Fund
Do you want to race but can’t afford the entry fee? Apply to the Trail Mix Fund to have your registration fee waived!
In an effort to improve diversity in trail racing and remove a potential barrier for the under-served and under-represented, the Trail Mix Fund pays the race registration fee for runners who cannot afford it or aren’t sure they belong in the sport.
As an optional add-on during race registration you can choose to donate to the fund and help more people get to the starting line. Donors will receive special recognition at our races and discounts on Trailblazer merch on race day!
Pregnancy and New Child Deferrals
We understand there are many barriers for new parents and pregnant runners within the sport of trail running. Participants who become pregnant after registering and prior to race day or are the parents to a recent newborn or adopted child can defer their entry to our event for up to two years. The race reserves the right to require additional proof of pregnancy. Please reach out to the Race Director at least one week prior to race day to process your deferral.
Please note that time periods for deferment are designed to support runners and partners who experience changes AFTER they have registered for the race. A runner who is pregnant or has a new child prior to registration is not covered in this policy. Contact the Race Director to request a deferment.
About Trailblazer Running
Trailblazer Running aims to inspire a sense of adventure, community, and environmental stewardship through memorable trail race events in the heart of the Midwest.
Race Rules and Cancellation Policy
A full list of our race rules and polices can be viewed on our website at the following links. Feel free to reach out via email to info@trailblazerrunning.co with any further questions.
Race Rules
Cancellation Policies
Event's current local time: 4:41 AM CT
