At just $23.50 to enter, the Dirt Days Trail Series event at East Fork State Park offers affordable trail running in Bethel, Ohio. The race takes place on July 26, 2026, with a typical start time of 8:00 AM at the venue located at 3294 Elklick. Participants can choose between two distances: a 10.8-mile option for those seeking a longer trail effort, or a 5.6-mile course for those preferring a shorter outing. Both routes use the park's trail system, making this an accessible option for trail runners of varying distances and fitness levels.
From the Race Organizer
Dirt Days Trail Series - East Fork SP Trail Run Sunday, July 26, 2026 8:30 am East Fork State Park, Bethel, OH The East Fork SP Trail Run is where the Dirt Days Trail Series all began. As the name states, the race will take place on the well-established Backpack Trail, at East Fork Lake State Park. The 5.6 mile course is densely wooded, and might give runners the feeling that they are on the Appalachian Trail. The course reverses direction each year. Note: Previously, this race was called the Backpack Trail Run but there was some confusion as to whether you had to wear a backpack for the race. All registration will be done online including on race day. We have added a "Trekker" category for those who would like to do the 10+ mile course but need extra time to finish. If you think that you need more than 2-2.5 hours to finish, we encourage you to consider the this option. You can start at 8:00 instead of 8:30. You will receive a time and credit for participation. Also, you can finish before all the food is gone! New for 2026: We have added a Trekker category for the 5+ event as well. Location: East Fork Lake Ohio State Park Link to East Fork State Park Web Page GPS Coordinates to the beach: 39.016999, -84.133509 Important - Race begins and ends at the South beach on the SOUTH side of the lake. Use Route 125 and not Route 32. Start Time: The One-lap 5.4 Mile Race and the two-lap 10.6 Mile event will begin at 8:30 am. We will also have a Trekker start beginning at 8:00. For those who need extra time or just want to start early, the trekker category is for you. We will record your time regardless of the distance that you run/walk. You will not score for the Dirty Dozen or race day competitive awards but you will count towards participation awards and random drawings. We will begin to sweep the course around 9:30 so you must complete your first lap by then. The Course: As the name states, the race will take place on the well-established Backpack Trail, at East Fork Lake State Park. The course reverses direction each year. Clockwise in even years. Counterclockwise in odd years. (Clockwise for 2026) Individual Event Awards: Age based awards for each event Random prize drawings for each event. Plus, one pair of Altra shoes given out at random. No Duplicates (limit one pair per season) Registration Fee: Registration Fee: $23.50. Online Registration Only, Kids 14 and under will receive a $5 discount at checkout. Season Pass: We offer a season pass for the entire Dirt Days Trail Series. One price covers all eight events. More information . Race Day Registration and Check-In: 7:10 am.- through 8:15 am. Race day registration will be available online. Trail Series Shirts: Dirt Days Trail Series Shirts will be available for purchase at the Fleet Feet Tent on Race Day or with your registration for. $20
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Dirt Days Trail Series – East Fork SP Trail Run 2026 — Bethel, OH
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for July 26.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Bethel, OH.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Dirt Days Trail Series – East Fork SP Trail Run 2026 — Bethel, OH?
Dirt Days Trail Series – East Fork SP Trail Run 2026 — Bethel, OH takes place on July 26, 2026. The race is held in Bethel, Ohio.
Where is Dirt Days Trail Series – East Fork SP Trail Run 2026 — Bethel, OH held?
Dirt Days Trail Series – East Fork SP Trail Run 2026 — Bethel, OH is held at 3294 Elklick in Bethel, Ohio.
Where can I find hotels near Dirt Days Trail Series – East Fork SP Trail Run 2026 — Bethel, OH?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Bethel. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
