Geode Challenge Races
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About the race
The Geode Challenge Races are an annual trail race event held at Geode State Park in Danville, IA. The event supports Friends of Geode projects at the park, including recent renovations to the Beach Concession House and related park activities. The Danville Lions Club is listed as a continuing sponsor.
Distances offered:
- 25K (15.5 miles) double loop option
- 12K (7.75 miles) single perimeter loop
- 5K (3.1 miles) out-and-back to Shelter 1
The courses run on varied trail surfaces: dirt and single-track, wide track, sections with large rock and small gravel, road mix, sand, mowed grass, and short road sections. The perimeter loop has about 800 feet of vertical gain; the 25K doubles this elevation. The route includes a creek crossing and is marked with flags, ribbons and course signs. Shelter 4 awning will be used despite limited access to that area.
Water is provided at the Start/Finish area for finishers and for 25K participants to refill bottles or hydration vests. Shelters 1 and 4 will have water and light snacks. All finishers receive a geode. Handmade wooden award plaques with mounted geodes are given to first place male and female in each race; a TOP DOG plaque is awarded to the first overall finisher running with a dog. Dogs are allowed on course but must be leashed to avoid tripping other runners.
Online registration closes on Oct 13, 2026. In-person race morning registration accepts cash or check and increases the fee by $5. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
