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Free State Trail Run

October 12, 2024
Lawrence
Trail
Distances
Ultramarathon, Marathon, Half-Marathon
Starting Time

8:00 AM

Fees

$70 – $85

Perfect For
1-100
Some Hills
Park Run
High: 68°
/ Low: 46°
Overview
The Free State Trail half-marathon, marathon, 40-mile and 1/4 marathon races begin and end in Clinton Lake State Park, which is located 25 miles east of Topeka in this college town that’s home to the University of Kansas. Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of college life, this trail half-marathon will allow runners to get up close and personal with nature. Runners of the half-marathon will race one large loop through the Clinton Lake North Shore Trails. Bring your trail shoes and prepare yourself for a rocky ride. This technical course is full of tree roots, stream crossings, rocky trails, and rolling hills.

Wildlife sightings are extremely common and run the gamut from squirrels and snakes to deer and ducks. Mud can become an issue if the area receives rain in the days leading up to the event.
Runners jump right into the fun from the starting line heading out on the white trail, which is considered to me more difficult than the blue trail. The trail takes runners eastward, curving around a large campground area.
Once they make a half-circle around the area, runners hop on the blue trail and work their way westward. They will pass by the start/finish area and continue along past the area known as Swim Beach. Eventually they will make their way to Lands End and curve south around the lake.
Racers will continue along the blue trail and run alongside portions of Lake Henry, a smaller lake located within the park. Runners cross over pavement for the first time, where cones and volunteers will keep runners safe from road traffic.
A bit further south, racers will pass near the Visitor Center area and then begin to make their way to Sanders Mound. There is a turnaround at the top of Sanders Mound and then it is time to start making the journey back to the finish line.
After an aid station is an Army Corps of Engineers Area, a point of interest before jumping back on the white trail. Past Lake Henry, there is a large new section of trail to conquer before making a very similar path back to the finish line.
Once runners reach the Swim Beach area, they know it is almost time to celebrate a new victory. A post-race meal, showers, and a finisher’s medal will all be waiting at the finish line.

Free State Trail Run Course Map

Visit the race website for an up to date course map.

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