First Day Trail Run and Walk at Monroe Lake

13th Annual First Day Trail Run and Walk

Price: $20

Time: 3:30PM EST - 5:00PM EST

Registration Opens October 30, 2025 at 5:00pm EDT

ADVANCE Registration (thru December 30) is $20

SAME-DAY Registration will be $25 (cash / check only)

Location: Fairfax State Recreation Area on Monroe Lake: Bay View Shelter

Check-In / Same-day Registration: 2:15 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Run / Walk Start Time: 3:30 p.m.

This is an untimed, non-competitive run/walk. Choose from a 3.7-mile, 2.9-mile, or 1.3-mile course – and don’t forget to tap the bell and ring in the new year as you cross the finish line!

The FIRST 300 to register in ADVANCE get the 100% embroidered, collectible, event patch!

All registrations include…

• A food station with soup, grilled cheese sandwiches, hot cocoa, and a wide variety of snacks.
• A ticket for the prize drawing, which will have TONS of great prizes!
• Hundreds of free photos for you to download after the event.
• A large fire to keep you warm while waiting for the start and enjoying food after you finish.

Special note for leisurely walkers: Please be aware that all courses close at 5 p.m. and the food station will shut down shortly after that.

Dogs are not encouraged but are permitted. They must be on a leash of 6' or less at all times, and we ask that you begin the run/walk at the back of the group.

Course Maps

• LONG COURSE, 3.7-miles: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/16519698
• MEDIUM COURSE, 2.9-miles: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/47344648
• SHORT COURSE, 1.3-miles: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/16519720

Questions? Contact the Paynetown Activity Center on Monroe Lake at 812-837-9967 or email Jill Vance at [email protected].

All proceeds from this event support public events, programs, and interpretation at Monroe Lake!

This event is co-sponsored by the Indiana Trail Running Association.