Grand Explorers' Trail Race
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Grand Explorers' Trail Race : Jenison, MI : June 20, 2026
The event is a run and walk that links two Ottawa County parks along the Grand River via the newly completed Idema Explorers Trail. It is presented by the Ottawa County Parks Foundation and Ottawa County Parks and takes place at Grand River County Park and Grand Ravines County Park. The event includes on-site and virtual options and offers post-race treats.
The course begins at Grand River County Park, follows a natural surface trail to the paved Idema Explorers Trail along the Grand River, and continues into Grand Ravines County Park where participants encounter a covered bridge and a short incline with river views. The 5K route turns around near the lodge area. The 10K continues through Grand Ravines Park, past the dog park, across the Idema suspension bridge, down stairs, and returns via the Statema Woodland Trail with additional climbs and descents back to Grand River Park. Aid stations and bathrooms are located near the lodge and the dog park.
Additional event details:
- 1 Mile kids fun run on paved trail; strollers allowed
- 5K (3.1 miles) mostly flat along the river with an aid station near the lodge
- 10K (6.2 miles) includes hills, stairs, suspension bridge, and dirt climbs
- Virtual 5K and Virtual 10K with shirt pickup at the Nature Education Center in July; virtual races requested to be completed by July 4, 2026
Dogs may run the 5K and 10K when kept on a six foot leash; owners must manage waste and behavior. Strollers are not permitted on the 5K or 10K because of difficult terrain and narrow trail sections. Registration pricing for the 5K and 10K increases on April 1, 2026; the kids run price does not increase and a family discount is available. Registrations made by May 30, 2026 guarantee a T shirt. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
