Royal Oaks Sunrise Trail Race
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Royal Oaks Sunrise Trail Race (August 22, 2026)
The event is a trail running race in Kirksville, Missouri, with routes based at the Royal Oaks Trailhead in the Big Creek Conservation Area. The entire course is off road and features views of Forest Lake.
Distances
- 10K, off-road, includes Rainbow Basin Loop in Thousand Hills State Park
- 5k, out-and-back along Royal Oaks Ridge
The 10K route winds south on Royal Oaks Ridge and continues counter-clockwise on the Rainbow Basin Loop. The 5k follows the same ridge on an out-and-back course. One aid station serves runners at approximately 1.5 miles and 4.5 miles, the latter also serving as the 5k turnaround.
Registration information notes a low entry fee and that all proceeds benefit the Forest Lake Area Trails System (FLATS). Trucker hats are available for purchase and proceeds from the race benefit FLATS. Registration closes on August 20 and there are no refunds; entries may be transferred through the event registration system by that date.
Parking at the Royal Oaks Trailhead is limited, so carpooling is encouraged. Trail etiquette guidance asks runners to call out when passing and to avoid or limit earbud use so others can hear approaching runners. The organizers run the event rain or shine and may delay, cancel, or alter the course for safety.
Awards include free entry for overall 10K winners into the FLATS Trail Half Marathon, trucker hats for age-division and 5k winners, and commemorative car stickers for all finishers. Course records stand at 38:27 for men and 44:19 for women. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
