The 5k course goes the length of the wide, Piper's Creek Trail, climbing first gently, then more steeply to the head of the valley before turning around and going over half the distance back. The route then turns left up the South Ridge Trail, which climbs steeply then becomes a rolling traverse through some of the older forest in the park. Upon reaching the Clay Pit Trail, the course turns right down the hill, then descends to the meadow on the Hillside Trail and goes a few hundred meters to the finish.
The 10k course is two loops of the 5k course.
Aid/Refreshments are at the finish, which is the halfway point for the 10k runners.
The refreshments will include at least water and some sort of carbohydrate-rich food, such as pieces of Clif Bar, bagel, fruity candy, and/or bananas. There will likely be a few choices of these foods, along with electrolyte-replacement drink.
Safety and Trail Etiquette
The trails will be open to other users during the event, including pedestrians and cyclists (on the wide Piper's Creek Trail). Please be courteous. Few cyclists use the Piper's Creek Trail, but the park is a popular oasis of forested trails for walkers and runners.
In places, the trails have sharp turns and bumps (rocks or tree roots), and it pays to pay attention to where you put your feet in such sections. In addition, there are a couple wooden bridges (which could be a little slippery if wet) and nearby stairs, which will require some care to avoid falling from slipping or tripping. However, none of the trails are treacherous or demand any special skills or experience to navigate them. Anyone who is fit enough to hike or run the distance should be able to get through the course fine with a bit of care.
Participants are responsible for their own safety while participating, and the organizers are neither qualified nor equipped to render medical care in the event of a serious injury. In case of an emergency, call 9-1-1. You are encouraged to bring a cell phone with you as a safety precaution, if you wish.
Where the trails are narrow, please let other participants pass you if they want to get by. It is a passing runner's job to tell the person in front that they wish to pass.