2026 False Spring Trail Runs

The 2026 False Spring Trail Runs will take place on Saturday, March 21st, 2026, at Soldiers Memorial Park Trailhead, located at Lake Shore Dr, LaPorte, IN 46350. This event is set in the heart of the Midwest, featuring a trail system that challenges runners with its winding singletrack, punchy climbs, and scenic views of lakes and ponds. Weather in LaPorte during this time is known to be highly variable, with historical conditions ranging from cold and windy to mild and drizzly, and even warmer temperatures. Participants can expect a mix of conditions and should come prepared for anything. The run offers a unique experience where the focus is on the journey, not the pace, with two loop-based courses that provide a blend of challenge and engagement.

What distances are available for this event?

• →10K distance: Covers one full lap through the trail network
• →Half Marathon distance: Completes the initial lap and goes back out for a second round

What is the race schedule for this event?

• →Half Marathon start: 9:00 AM
• →10K start: 9:30 AM
• →Half Marathon cut-off time to leave the halfway point: 11:00 AM
• →Overall race cut-off / Finish line closes: 1:00 PM

What is the terrain like for this event?

• →The course features well-worn singletrack in the woods
• →The terrain is non-flat and non-smooth, with winding switchbacks, punchy climbs, and constant directional changes
• →The trail system consists of two connected loops: a roughly 2-mile loop and a 4+ mile loop

What is the atmosphere of this event?

• →The atmosphere is described as scenic, challenging, and playful
• →The event is designed to keep runners engaged rather than focusing on personal records (PRs)

What is included in the registration?

• →Every participant receives a custom finisher award
• →Top 3 Male and Top 3 Female finishers at each distance receive additional podium awards
• →The non-binary category does not have designated podium awards beyond the standard finisher award

What are the division and inclusivity policies?

• →Entrants register as Male, Female, or Non-Binary based on declared gender
• →Pronouns can be specified during registration

What is the youth program for this event?

• →The USATF MUT Youth Initiative is available for runners aged 19 and under
• →Special age-based pricing applies: $20 for 10K, $30 for Half, $20 for Half Relay
• →A limited number of free entries are available by request; contact the Race Director at [info@trailblazerrunning.co](mailto:info@trailblazerrunning.co) for details

What is the registration fee for this event?

• →Youth pricing: $20 for 10K, $30 for Half, $20 for Half Relay
• →Free entries are available by request; contact the Race Director at [info@trailblazerrunning.co](mailto:info@trailblazerrunning.co) for details

What is the Trail Mix Fund?

• →The Trail Mix Fund is designed to waive registration fees for under-served, under-represented, or financially constrained runners
• →Participants can donate to this fund during registration

What is the deferral policy for this event?

• →Pregnant runners or new parents (birth or adoption) who experience these life events after registering can defer their entry for up to two years
• →Requests must be made to the Race Director at least one week prior to race day

What is the mission of the organizer?

• →The organizer, Trailblazer Running, aims to inspire adventure, community, and environmental stewardship through trail races in the Midwest

What is the expected weather for this event?

• →Weather in LaPorte during this time is highly variable, with historical conditions ranging from temperatures in the teens with 20mph winds to drizzling rain at 38°F, or highs of 64°F
• →Runners are advised to expect the unexpected and come prepared for cold, wind, or mild conditions