Groundhog Grind Trail Run

Groundhog Grind Trail Run

The Groundhog Grind Trail Run kicks off the Altoona Running Club's 2026 race season. The race is held at Thomas Mitchell Park, just east of Altoona, Iowa. There are two distance options for this winter trail race: a 5k for a quick Sunday run and a 10K, two loop, race for those who love a challenge. February in Iowa is unpredictable, making this a potentially challenging event.

Event Details:

• Distances: 5K (1 loop), 10K (2 loops)
• Start Time: 10:00 AM CST
• Date: Sunday, February 1st, 2026
• Location: Thomas Mitchell Park, east of Altoona, IA (start area in the campground)

This is the 5th running of the Groundhog Grind, aiming to be a challenging running event in the Des Moines area. The course is not necessarily super challenging on its own, but running it in early February in Iowa will be. The course will be marked with ribbons and cones with directional arrows. Distances will be measured by GPS. The start/finish area will be in the campground with timing provided by True Time Racing. The course includes features like the red bridge, scout camp area, DeVotie Hill, Groundhog Gulch, Bone Chiller Prairie, Thomas Mitchell Pond, and Camp Creek.

Virtual Options: 5K Virtual Trail Run and 10K Virtual Trail Run are also available.

Organizer: Altoona Running Club