Grow Wild Trail Run

Become a founding runner of a new trail running tradition at the Northland Arboretum.

Trail racing is back at the Arb.

Join us for the inaugural Grow Wild Trail Run at the Northland Arboretum on Saturday, August 22nd. For nearly two decades, the Arb was home to one of the Brainerd Lakes Area’s favorite trail running traditions, and we are excited to once again welcome runners to our trails with a new name and a new chapter for the future.

Participants can choose between a Half Marathon or 10K race, both taking place entirely on Northland Arboretum property.

Race Details

Half Marathon Start Time: 7:30 AM
10K Start Time: 8:00 AM
Half Marathon participants will complete two loops of the course
10K participants will complete one (shortened) loop of the course
This is a fully off-road trail race utilizing the Arb’s scenic trail system through forests, rolling terrain, and natural landscapes.

*See course map and elevation chart below (subject to change)

The Grow Wild Trail Run will feature a gun start with professional chip timing provided by Pickle Events.

Packet Pickup & Expo

Friday, August 21st
Health & Wellness Expo + Packet Pickup
3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Northland Arboretum Visitor Center

Saturday, August 22nd
Day-of Packet Pickup & Registration
6:00 AM – 7:00 AM
Northland Arboretum Visitor Center

Runner Information

All registered participants will receive an event T-shirt and finisher medal
Guaranteed T-shirt deadline: August 5th, 2026
All racers will receive free admission to the Northland Arboretum all weekend (Friday–Sunday)
Runner capacity is limited to 400 participants
Early registration is encouraged
Follow parking attendants upon arrival - Please do not park at the movie theatre. 

Aid Stations

10K aid stations are planned at approximately:
Mile 3
Mile 5
Finish Line

Half Marathon aid stations are planned at approximately:
Mile 3
Mile 5
Mile 7
Mile 10
Finish Line

Aid stations will include water & electrolytes

Additional Information

No dogs allowed on the racecourse
Dogs are welcome at the Arb and must be on leash

This event is a fundraiser for the Northland Arboretum and helps support trail maintenance, environmental education, recreation opportunities, conservation projects, and continued improvements throughout the Arb. We are currently raising money to light our forest ice skating trail. 

Come run, explore, and GROW WILD WITH US.

Ready to test your limits? The Grow Wild Trail Run brings a highly anticipated Half-Marathon, 10K to Brainerd on August 22, 2026. Expect a fantastic route right in the heart of Minnesota.