Franciscan Rhythms Trail 5K Run & Walk
About this race
The 12th annual Franciscan Rhythms 5K Trail Run & Walk benefiting our music therapy program and land restoration efforts will take place Saturday, October. 3, 2026.
The all-ages and all-fitness levels 5K will give participants an opportunity to “Run with Nuns” and experience a variety of restorative projects on a scenic path through our Lowell campus, 11650 Downes St. NE.
As race participants enjoy the course, they will be surrounded by deciduous woodland, pine forest and a restored prairie that contains all native plants. Visitors have spotted many beautiful birds, insects and woodland animals on the land – even an adventurous beaver!
A variety of live music stations featuring Irish, rock and folk music will be spread out along the trail route to motivate and inspire participants.
Learn more about the Franciscan Life Process Center at LifeProcessCenter.org.
Race schedule
- Recommended arrival time is 8:30 a.m. for registration.
- A short fun run for children will start at 9 a.m.
- The 5K run & walk will start at 9:15 a.m.
- After the race, there will be water and snacks, including the Sisters’ homemade cinnamon rolls.
- The event will conclude at noon.
Registration information
The 5K run & walk registration is $35 and the kids’ race is $15 online until 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3. Same-day registration will be offered on-site from 7:45-8:45 a.m. for $40. Register by Wednesday, September 16, 2026, to guarantee a race t-shirt.
A virtual option is also available for individuals who cannot attend on Oct. 3 but still want to run or walk the route another time and support the cause.
Fundraising goals
Our goal is to raise $40,000 to support our music therapy scholarship fund, which helps cover the cost of services for families and individuals when medical insurance will not. Funds will also help the continued stewardship of our Lowell campus, a beautiful space where our clients can grow and heal. Help us reach our fundraising goal by making a donation online.
You can also support our efforts by preordering fresh, homemade bread baked by the Franciscan Sisters and volunteers. Choose from whole wheat, oatmeal or dilly casserole bread for $10 per loaf. Orders can be picked up at our Lowell Campus. Place your order by visiting our online store.
Volunteer opportunities
We’re seeking volunteers to help us prepare for the race, assist with day-of setup and support cleanup efforts. View the volunteer opportunities and sign up online.
Tag us on social media
Share your photos from the event on social media with the hashtag #RunWithNuns and tag the Center on Facebook @FranciscanCenter and Instagram @FranciscanLifeProcessCenter.
FAQs
How do I become a sponsor?
Fill out our sponsorship packet and email it to skoteskey@lifeprocesscenter.org.
Can you register on the day of the race?
Yes, you can register in person from 7:45 to 8:45 a.m. The late registration fee is $40.
Is there a map of the trail?
Yes, please view the race map here. Printed maps will also be provided at the race.
Is the trail paved?
No, most of the trail is unpaved, winding through wooded areas, fields and our prairie.
Are strollers and dogs allowed on the trail?
No, strollers and dogs are not allowed.
How can I purchase bread?
Visit our online store to purchase bread online then pick it up at the race.
Pick your distance
Running
Franciscan Rhythms Trail Run
Typical race-day weather
Based on 6 years of Open-Meteo archive data for this event's race dates in Lowell, plus the 3 days either side.
The sun rises at 7:41 AM and sets at 7:19 PM local time (EDT) in Lowell on October 3, 2026 — 11h 38m of daylight.
Course
No course map published yet.
The organizer hasn't released a route for this event, and we don't publish guesses. If you're the organizer, send us a GPX file and we'll draw the profile.
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Results — Franciscan Rhythms Trail 5K Run & Walk
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🏃 Plan Your Next Race in Lowell
Find upcoming events by distance:
- Lowell 5K Races 6 races
- Lowell Running Calendar 2026 6 races
Where this page comes from. Race details were last updated on . We re-check listings regularly and again in the week before race day.
- Entries, prices, waves and inclusions — the event's official registration page
- Temperature and humidity — Copernicus ERA5 reanalysis via Open-Meteo (CC BY 4.0)
- Elevation and terrain relief — Copernicus DEM GLO-90, ESA (CC BY 4.0)
- Comparisons and counts — Race Discovery calendar, 8 Lowell events
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