Crescent Hill 5K

The perfect midsummer trail run is waiting for you! 
 
Join Pottawattamie Conservation at Crescent Hill at Hitchcock for our first-ever Crescent Hill 5K | Tow Rope Trot & Nature Hike. Trek through the globally significant Loess Hills and take in the beautiful prairie views, all while raising funds for a terrain park tow rope and new four-season recreation opportunities. 
 
Race Options: 
 
5K: The 5K trail racing course will take you from the Crescent Hill ski lodge through wooded hillsides, around a beautiful fishing pond, and to the scenic top of the ski hill, before you wind your way back to the base of the ski area.
 
Nature Hike: Participants may also sign up for a 2-mile nature hike/walk along Crescent Ridge Trail, which loops around the entire ski area and offers scenic views and moderate terrain. 

Trail surface is dirt and gravel.
 
Theme:
 
We hope you show up with bells on, because it's Christmas in July! Don your cheeriest running gear and jingle your way to the finish line for a chance to take home an award for best costume. 
 
Awards:  
 
Stick around for the post-race award ceremony, where eco-friendly race medals will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers per age group and for best costume. The top male and female finishers overall will also take home a free skiing weekend for two. 
 
Age Groups (5K Race):  
 
12 and under, 13-19, 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60+ 
 
Cost:
 
Through June 18th - $35 
June 19th through July 17th - $40 
$45 on July 18th/Race day (Payments must be made onsite by card, no cash) 
 
Add-ons: 
 
Shirts can be added on for $15, and orders must be received by July 1st.
 
Drink passes for ages 21+ are available for $5. Pass includes two drink tickets for beer or seltzer. Beverages may also be purchased onsite by card only. The area is officially cashless, although cash tips or donations are welcome and appreciated.
 
Donate:
 
Unable to attend but want to support the cause? You ROCK! Please consider donating or purchasing a shirt for $15. Proceeds support Crescent Hill at Hitchcock. Thank you! 
 
Your support will help Crescent Hill fund a terrain park tow rope (approximate cost of $25,000) and support four-season recreation development as part of the area's master plan that aims to expand outdoor recreation opportunities while preserving the globally significant Loess Hills. Southwestern Iowa's Loess Hills harbor some of the last remnant prairie in the entire state, of which less than 0.1% remains. Learn more about the new vision for the area, which is officially a part of the 1,500-acre Hitchcock Nature Center, at explorecrescenthill.com. 

Ready to test your limits? The Crescent Hill 5K brings a highly anticipated 5K, 3.5K to Honey Creek on July 18, 2026. Expect a fantastic route right in the heart of Iowa.