Little Carolina Trail Fest offers trail running and rucking events held at Lagoon Picnic Area in Rocky River Reservation near Olmsted Falls, Ohio. Participants can choose from 5K, 10K, or 20K distances, making the event accessible to various fitness levels and training focuses. The race takes place on June 20, 2026, with a start time at noon. Entry fees range from free to $50, depending on the specific event selected. The venue provides a natural trail setting within the reservation, giving athletes the opportunity to train and compete on terrain typical of regional trail racing while staying in the greater Cleveland area.
From the Race Organizer
We're heading south—Cleveland-style —for the Little Carolina run on June 20th ! While we’re not making the trip to the real Carolinas, we are bringing the southern vibes to the Cleveland Metroparks with this fun, summer evening race. How This Event Works 🏃♂️ This event features a 5K loop! . During registration, participants choose which distance they want to accomplish on race day At the finish line, participants will receive a finisher medal and a distance button to adhere to their ribbon to commemorate the distance they accomplished Hiking, Rucking, Walking, Running, and any speed is allowed. After the race, stick around for a lively afterparty featuring live bluegrass music and a beer garden to toast your miles. The loops and start/finish will pass amongst the festivities for an atmosphere you won't want to miss This year, Fest Entry is completely Pay-What-You-Can. Our goal is to make sure everyone can attend, regardless of their financial situation. No pressure, no judgment. For those who can swing it, a $5 contribution is greatly appreciated to help us cover permits, live music, and event costs. Kids & Under 21: Free! Event Timeline 4:15 PM | Shuttle service begins at Frostville Museum 4:30 PM | Packet Pick-Up begins 6:00 PM | Race starts, beer garden opens, and live music kicks off 8:35 PM | Runners must have started the final loop 9:00 PM | Event concludes and sweep of the course for final runners 9:15 PM | Last shuttle leaves The Lagoon Picnic Area Course Map: Little Carolina 5K Loop on Strava Participant Swag and Perks Custom finisher medal + distance pin Custom race shirt Opt out for some added savings Chip-timed race on one of our favorite courses with some southern charm Beer garden, with the first beverage on us Live bluegrass music And a summer evening race you do not want to miss. All paces from hikers to runners are welcome. Fest Entry ticket Join the festivities without setting a foot on the trail! Live bluegrass music This year, Fest Entry is completely Pay-What-You-Can. Our goal is to make sure everyone can attend, regardless of their financial situation. No pressure, no judgment. For those who can swing it, a $5 contribution is greatly appreciated to help us cover permits, live music, and event costs. Kids & Under 21: Free! Lace up and join us for an evening of miles, music, and good vibes! Rain/Inclement Weather Plan: In the case of bad weather, the race will happen. We will adjust the live music as necessary, but will not be canceling unless severe weather.
Hotels Near This Race
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Little Carolina Trail Fest 2026 — Olmsted Falls, OH
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for June 20.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Olmsted Falls, 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 Little Carolina Trail Fest 2026 — Olmsted Falls, OH?
Little Carolina Trail Fest 2026 — Olmsted Falls, OH takes place on June 20, 2026. The race is held in Olmsted Falls, Ohio.
Where is Little Carolina Trail Fest 2026 — Olmsted Falls, OH held?
Little Carolina Trail Fest 2026 — Olmsted Falls, OH is held at Lagoon Picnic Area, Rocky River Reservation Valley Pkwy in Olmsted Falls, Ohio.
Where can I find hotels near Little Carolina Trail Fest 2026 — Olmsted Falls, OH?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Olmsted Falls. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
