Registration for the Grow Wild Trail Run costs between $45 and $75. The race takes place on August 22, 2026, in Brainerd, Minnesota at 14250 Conservation Drive. Runners can choose between a 6.2-mile course or the half marathon distance. The event starts at 7:30 AM, giving participants an early morning opportunity to complete their race. This trail running event offers a straightforward option for endurance athletes looking to log miles on trail terrain in central Minnesota.
From the Race Organizer
Become a founding runner of a new trail running tradition at the Northland Arboretum . Trail racing is back at the Arb. Join us for the inaugural Grow Wild Trail Run at the Northland Arboretum on Saturday, August 22nd . For nearly two decades, the Arb was home to one of the Brainerd Lakes Area’s favorite trail running traditions, and we are excited to once again welcome runners to our trails with a new name and a new chapter for the future. Participants can choose between a Half Marathon or 10K race , both taking place entirely on Northland Arboretum property. Race Details Half Marathon Start Time: 7:30 AM 10K Start Time: 8:00 AM Half Marathon participants will complete two loops of the course 10K participants will complete one (shortened) loop of the course This is a fully off-road trail race utilizing the Arb’s scenic trail system through forests, rolling terrain, and natural landscapes. *See course map and elevation chart below (subject to change) The Grow Wild Trail Run will feature a gun start with professional chip timing provided by Pickle Events. Packet Pickup & Expo Friday, August 21st Health & Wellness Expo + Packet Pickup 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM Northland Arboretum Visitor Center Saturday, August 22nd Day-of Packet Pickup & Registration 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM Northland Arboretum Visitor Center Runner Information All registered participants will receive an event T-shirt and finisher medal Guaranteed T-shirt deadline: August 5th, 2026 All racers will receive free admission to the Northland Arboretum all weekend (Friday–Sunday) Runner capacity is limited to 400 participants Early registration is encouraged Follow parking attendants upon arrival - Please do not park at the movie theatre. Aid Stations 10K aid stations are planned at approximately: Mile 3 Mile 5 Finish Line Half Marathon aid stations are planned at approximately: Mile 3 Mile 5 Mile 7 Mile 10 Finish Line Aid stations will include water & electrolytes Additional Information No dogs allowed on the racecourse Dogs are welcome at the Arb and must be on leash This event is a fundraiser for the Northland Arboretum and helps support trail maintenance, environmental education, recreation opportunities, conservation projects, and continued improvements throughout the Arb. We are currently raising money to light our forest ice skating trail. Come run, explore, and GROW WILD WITH US.
Hotels Near This Race
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for August 22.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Brainerd, MN.
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
Grow Wild Trail Run 2026 — Brainerd, MN takes place on August 22, 2026. The race is held in Brainerd, Minnesota.
Where is Grow Wild Trail Run 2026 — Brainerd, MN held?
Grow Wild Trail Run 2026 — Brainerd, MN is held at 14250 Conservation Drive in Brainerd, Minnesota.
Where can I find hotels near Grow Wild Trail Run 2026 — Brainerd, MN?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Brainerd. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
