Grand Explorers' Trail Race

🏞️ Race Overview

Explore two parks in one race. Run (or walk!) through two beautiful Ottawa County Parks that sit along the Grand River. #2Parks1Race

The Ottawa County Parks Foundation and Ottawa County Parks are excited to host this fun, family-friendly run/walk and celebrate the recently completed Idema Explorers Trail that connects Grand River Park to Grand Ravines Park. Come and enjoy nature, community, and some post-race treats. Ottawa County Parks are for everyone.

🗺️ Race Course Information

• Starting Point: The course starts at Grand River County Park winding you through a natural surface trail.
• Trail Details: You will hit the newly completed Idema Explorers Trail segment that leads you along the Grand River to Grand Ravines County Park.
• Spectacular View: As you enter Grand Ravines, you will see an old covered bridge and go up a small incline to a spectacular view of the river.
• Wildlife: If you’re lucky, you might even see the resident bald eagles out fishing.

🏃‍♂️ Distance Options

• 5K Details: If you are running (or walking) the 5K, you will turn around at Grand Ravines Park.
• 10K Route: If you are running the 10K, you will continue to wind yourself through Grand Ravines Park, around past the dog park, through the meadow.
• Idema Suspension Bridge: You will cross the Idema suspension bridge, go down some stairs, and back through the woods to Grand River Park.
• Overall Experience: Sounds pretty Grand, doesn’t it?

⏰ Starting Times

• Kids’ Fun Run: The kids’ 1-mile fun run/walk will start at 8:00 am.
• Main Races: The 10K and 5K races will start at 8:30 am.
• Trail Restrictions: The kids’ fun run/walk will be on a paved trail only so strollers will be allowed.
• Terrain Advisory: No strollers will be allowed on the 10K/5K route due to difficult terrain and narrow trails in some areas of the course.

🐕 Dog Policy

• Allowed on Course: Dogs will be allowed to run the 10K and 5K races with their human.
• Leash Requirement: They must be on a six-foot leash at all times.
• Consideration: We ask that you be considerate of those around you and that you only bring a dog that is well-mannered and comfortable around people, including children, and other dogs.
• Fun for All: We want everyone to have a great time!

💵 Registration Information

Registration price increase starting May 27, 2025 for the 5K and 10K. Kids 1-Mile Fun Run price does not increase. Family discount available. Register before Saturday, May 31, 2025 to guarantee a T-shirt!

🔗 More Information

For further details, please visit the Grand Explorers' Trail Race page.