Spooky Sprint- Des Moines 2026 — Polk City, IA

Date
October 10, 2026
Location
Polk City, IA
Venue
Big Creek State Park
Start Time
8:00 AM
Sunrise
7:20 AM
Entry Fee
$0.00 – $80.00
Events
1Mile, 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, Kids Dash, Volunteer then Run
Includes
T-Shirt
Register NowRegistration Open

Spooky Sprint takes place on October 10, 2026, in Polk City, Iowa, at Big Creek State Park. The event offers three running distances: a 1-mile option, a 6.2-mile race, and a half marathon. Entry fees range from $17 to $80 depending on the distance selected. The race starts at 8:00 AM. If you're unable to travel to Iowa, a virtual participation option is available, allowing you to complete your chosen distance on your own schedule and submit your results remotely. Whether you're preparing for a local training run or traveling specifically for the half marathon, this October race accommodates various fitness levels and scheduling needs.

From the Race Organizer
Join us for the annual Spooky Sprint 5k/10k & Half Marathon! A fun, Halloween-themed event that is perfect for the whole family. The fun includes Great Swag designer shirt & custom medal Chip-timing with live results and awards Free photos Delicious Treats waiting at the finish line Plenty of fun! Grab your friends and family, you are not going to want to miss this one! Can't make the race? No problem! We offer a virtual race option where you can run anywhere, at any time, and still earn the fun swag! *Youth-based pricing for the 5k/10k, 12 & Under are only $17! Half Marathon registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, awesome finisher medal! 10k registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and awesome finisher medal! 5k registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal! 1 Mile registration is untimed and includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal! The kid's dash is a fun, untimed dash for our kiddos ages 10 and under. Registration includes a mini bib, youth-sized shirt, and a specifically crafted medal for our kids' dash event! (If your child wants to run the kid's dash, and doesn't want the SWAG, they are welcome to run with us on race day for free!) *Register by midnight on Thursday, two Thursdays before race day, to guarantee your shirt!

Course & Travel Notes

The Spooky Sprint takes place at 919 feet elevation in Polk City, Iowa, which is low enough that altitude won't significantly impact your pacing strategy. Sunrise occurs at 7:22 AM, just before the 8:00 AM start time, so you'll begin in near-darkness. October weather in this area typically features highs around 63°F and lows near 42°F, with about a 29% chance of measurable rain on any given day—pack layers and consider rain gear. Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is located 19.9 miles from the venue, making it a convenient option for flying in.

⛰️ 919 ft elevation☀️ Typically 63°F / 42°F · 29% chance of rain✈️ Des Moines International Airport (DSM) — 19.9 mi

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Polk City, IA. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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Spooky Sprint- Des Moines 2026 — Polk City, IA

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for October 10.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Polk City, IA. 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
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Spooky Sprint- Des Moines 2026 — Polk City, IA?

Spooky Sprint- Des Moines 2026 — Polk City, IA takes place on October 10, 2026. The race is held in Polk City, Iowa.

Where is Spooky Sprint- Des Moines 2026 — Polk City, IA held?

Spooky Sprint- Des Moines 2026 — Polk City, IA is held at Big Creek State Park in Polk City, Iowa.

Where can I find hotels near Spooky Sprint- Des Moines 2026 — Polk City, IA?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Polk City. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.