2026 Rockin K

The 28th Annual Rockin K Trail Runs will take place on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Kanopolis Lake State Park in the Ellsworth, Kansas, area. This event features a variety of trail running distances on single-track and multi-use trails, offering participants a challenging and scenic experience through the park's natural landscapes. The event is expected to experience a range of weather conditions, with historical temperature fluctuations from 14°F to 84°F. Runners should be prepared for potential snow, heat, humidity, or wind. The course is designed with interconnected loops and clear markings, ensuring a well-structured and navigable route for all participants.

What distances are available for this event?

• →50K Trail Run – 7:00 AM start
• →Trail Marathon – 7:00 AM start
• →21 Mile Trail Run – 7:00 AM start
• →4 Mile Trail Run – 7:30 AM start

What is the course structure for the Rockin K Trail Runs?

The course utilizes four interconnected loop trails: Horsethief Canyon Trail, Prairie Trail, Alum Creek Trail, and Big Bluff Loop. Runners complete the north half of each loop heading out and the south half returning. The Marathon completes all four trails once, the 21 Mile excludes the Big Bluff Loop, the 50K runs the marathon course and then the Big Bluff Loop a second time, and the 4 Mile is an out-and-back loop from Corral Shelter to Horsethief Canyon and back.

How are the trails marked during the event?

The trails are marked with PINK RIBBONS (vinyl/plastic) from the start to Gate #6 and around the Big Bluff Loop. ORANGE RIBBONS (vinyl/plastic) guide runners from Gate #6 back to the finish. Markers are placed so that the next ribbon is typically visible, with closely-spaced markers indicating trail forks. Fence crossings on the Big Bluff Loop are covered with blankets/tarps for safe passage.

What trail signs should participants be aware of?

Participants should be aware of several trail signs:

• →"HORSES ONLY": Ignore, as the event has a permit to use these trails.
• →"CLOSED TRAIL": Do not enter; this indicates an off-course route.
• →"RESTRICTED ACCESS/AREA": Indicates petroglyph protection or eagle hack towers; stay on marked trails.
• →"PRIVATE LAND": Fences mark private ranches; do not cross.
• →"WILDLIFE REFUGE": Seasonal closures (Nov-Feb) are not in effect during the race.

What aid stations and support are available during the event?

Manned aid stations are located at Gate #6, with additional unmanned water-only stations along the course. Hand sanitizer is available at all aid stations. Restrooms include camping-style toilets at Gate #6, a porta-pottie on the Big Bluff Loop, and facilities at the Start/Finish.

What are the cutoff times for the event?

Runners must leave the Gate #6 aid station heading to the finish by 4:00 PM. The overall time limits are 12 hours for the 50K, Marathon, and 21 Mile, and 3 hours for the 4 Mile. The final course cutoff is at 7:00 PM.

What is the field size for the event?

The event is limited to 120 participants across all distances, with registration on a first-received basis.

What is the registration policy for the event?

There is a $5 discount for Kansas Ultrarunners Society (KUS) members. No refunds are offered, but deferral options are available. A full deferral to the next year is possible if notice is received by midnight March 14, 2026. A 50% carryover credit is available if notified after March 14 but before online registration closes. No deferral or refund is offered after registration closes. An optional refund guarantee insurance is available, with all refund requests handled by the insurer.

What is included in the registration?

Participants receive a technical blend t-shirt (men's and women's sizing), finisher awards for all distances, and top 3 male/female awards in each distance. A post-race lunch with hamburgers, brats, and a vegetarian option is provided at the Corral Shelter, with additional guests charged $5.

What are the rules for crews, Pacers, and Drop Bags?

Crews are welcome at the Gate #6 aid station only, with parking at the range gate and a ½-mile walk along the fence line. Vehicles are not accessible, and 4WD/high-clearance is required at own risk. Pacers are not permitted, and drop bags must be labeled with the runner's name, bib number, and race distance. Unmarked bags will remain at Gate #6 until the station closes.

Are dogs allowed on the course?

Dogs are allowed with restrictions: they must be on a leash at all times, one dog per runner, and must not impede other participants. Participants should notify race directors if they are running with a dog to qualify for canine finisher awards.

What are the essential rules for participants?

Horses have the right of way and participants should announce themselves early and yield. Runners must stay on the marked course, and course-cutting will result in a DNF. Participants must notify race officials at the Start/Finish or Gate #6 if they drop. Distance changes must be completed by Friday night, and no downgrading is allowed on race day. Participants are responsible for purchasing a Kansas State Park day-use permit unless they have an annual pass.

What are the weather and safety precautions for the event?

Participants should prepare for a range of weather conditions, with historical temperatures from 14°F to 84°F. Health protocols require participants to arrive healthy and stay home if experiencing illness symptoms. High-touch surfaces are regularly sanitized, and hand hygiene is encouraged. The Kansas Ultrarunners Society reserves the right to modify protocols based on local health guidelines.

What are the start/finish and facilities details?

The start and finish are at the Corral Shelter at Rockin K Campgrounds. A mandatory pre-race briefing is held at 6:30 AM, and check-in is required even if participants have prior packet pickup. Camping is available throughout the park with electric hookups.