Every October for the past decade, Red Wing’s vibrant Bluff Color Fest has celebrated autumn with trail running and hiking atop the iconic Memorial Bluff. Hosted by Friends of the Bluffs, this community-run festival returns on Saturday, October 18, 2025, offering five distances from a family-friendly 5K hike to a scenic half marathon amid stunning fall foliage.
Participants are treated to a journey along two loops—roughly 3.1 mi and 6 mi—tracing open prairies, forest glades, and technical singletrack that ascends a sandstone ridge, delivering sweeping panoramas of the Mississippi River Valley. The event kicks off early: 10 mi and half-marathon distances at 7:45 AM, 10K at 8:00 AM, 5K run at 8:10 AM, and the 5K hike at 8:15 AM. Aid stations serve longer-route runners during loop repeats.
What sets this fest apart is its blend of community stewardship and outdoor celebration. Proceeds support trail maintenance across the bluffs, and the event offers a “No Thrills” entry option—allowing participation without swag, medals, or breakfast, encouraging focus on nature and cause. Expect a friendly, approachable vibe—ideal for newcomers to trail running—and tight early-season community camaraderie.
Building on Friends of the Bluffs’ mission since 2012, the race is a scenic fundraiser with purpose: “great fall weather and colors…and a great community vibe”.
