River Rat Run
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
River Rat Run, Yankton, SD
River Rat Run is a timed running event held on April 25, 2026, at the Lewis and Clark Lake recreation area near Gavins Point. The event offers multiple race distances on chip timed courses with video and manual iPad backup.
Participants can enter one of the following distances:
- Half Marathon
- 10K
- 5K run/walk
The course follows newly paved trails through wooded sections along the shores of Lewis and Clark Lake and Lake Yankton. There are two brief grass connectors between trail sections. The route provides wide lake views and opportunities to observe local wildlife, and in winter there is a chance to spot bald eagles.
Packet pick-up is available the day before the event at Ace Bike & Fitness, 2404 Broadway, Yankton. Race day check-in takes place at the Gavins Point Area picnic shelter; early pick-up is strongly encouraged and a free park day pass for participant vehicles is available at packet pick-up. No race-day registrations are accepted and there is no virtual option. Only half marathon participants receive finisher medals. Race shirts are guaranteed only for participants who register by midnight the Sunday before the race. Prizes are awarded to overall male and female winners and to first and second place finishers in each age division 1–19, 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, and 70–99.
The event began in 2009 to honor a service member who gave his life during Operation Iraqi Freedom; all race proceeds are donated to local nonprofit organizations. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
