First Day Trail Run and Walk

JAN
1
2026
Celebrate the new year with the First Day Trail Run and Walk at Monroe Lake, an untimed, non competitive trail event. Choose from three scenic distances, enjoy hot soup and a warming fire, and support Monroe Lake programs.
Thu 1 Jan 2026
4 miles 3 miles

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Event overview

The First Day Trail Run and Walk at Monroe Lake is an untimed, non-competitive trail run/walk held at Fairfax State Recreation Area in Bloomington, Indiana. The listing identifies this edition as the 13th annual event. The event offers three mapped course options and proceeds support public events, programs, and interpretation at Monroe Lake. Sponsors include Monroe Lake (Indiana State Parks) and the Indiana Trail Running Association.

Registration, courses and on-site amenities

Registration pricing is tiered by date: early registration through December 15 is $15, advance registration from December 16 to December 30 is $20, and same-day registration on January 1 is $25, payable by cash or check only. The first 300 advance registrants receive a 100% embroidered collectible event patch.

Distances available:

  • 3.7 miles
  • 2.9 miles
  • 1.3 miles

All registrations include access to a food station with soup, grilled cheese sandwiches, hot cocoa, and snacks; a ticket for a prize drawing; and hundreds of free finish-line photos available for download. A large warming fire will be available. Dogs are permitted on a leash of 6 feet or less and should begin the run/walk at the back of the group. All courses close at 5 p.m., and the food station will shut down shortly after that. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

4 mi
Long Course
3 mi
Medium Course
Short Course