Event Overview

This race features beautiful woodsy single-track, relentlessly winding switchbacks, multiple views of lakes and ponds, and post-race festivities waiting for you at the finish line.

The well-established dirt trails are split into two sides with one being about a 2 mile loop and the other about 4.2 miles. The 10K course is one full loop through the trails while the 20K is two laps.

This course is not flat. It’s not fast. It’s very challenging. It is highly unlikely you will PR. However, it is incredibly fun, it’s scenic, and it will most certainly be memorable. Come discover this hidden gem and join us as we kick-off the Spring racing season!

What’s a ‘False Spring’?

Every year in the Midwest Mother Nature tends to tantalize us with a warm patch of days just before smacking us in the face with more freezing temps. Will the sun be out on race day? Can’t say for sure, but that’s part of the fun of it. Last year it was cooooold with temps in the teens and some 20mph winds. The year before was 38° and drizzling, and three years ago it hit a high of 64° that weekend. Expect the unexpected and come prepared!

Race Information

Saturday March 23rd, 2024
(all times in Central Time)

Start Times
9:00 AM - 20K Start
9:30 AM - 10K Start

Cut-Off Times
11:00 AM - Must leave halfway point (20K race only)
1:00 PM - Overall cut-off at finish line / Races End

Start/Finish Line Location
Soldiers Memorial Park Trailhead
Lake Shore Dr
LaPorte, IN 46350

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 False Spring Trail Runs will be available for all runners 19 and under. Registration fees will remain at just $30 and $40 (for the 10k and 20k, respectively) 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: 8:28 AM CT