Trail running course through technical terrain in Kansas, USA
Free State Trail Run

Free State Trail Run — 6.75 Miles

6.75 Miles·430 ft gain·Ozawkie, Kansas
foresttechnicaltrail10kloop

AI-generated image

Distance6.75 Miles
Gain430 ft
DateAnnual · Oct
Difficulty2/5

Registration is closed for Free State Trail Run — 6.75 Miles

Get alerted if spots open up or when next year's registration goes live.

About This Race

The shortest option delivers a concentrated dose of Free State's technical single-track in a single loop format. Perfect for trail running newcomers or those seeking a challenging workout without the time commitment of longer distances, this course showcases exactly what makes the event special. Runners can focus on mastering the terrain's nuances while enjoying the supportive race atmosphere.

The entire course consists of single-track trails winding through a hardwood forest, with the trail surface characterized by rocks and technical sections that demand careful foot placement. Runners traverse the same 6.75-mile loop multiple times depending on their chosen distance, with occasional glimpses of Lake Perry breaking through the forest canopy.

Each loop includes 752 feet of climbing and descending, though the course deliberately avoids the tallest hills in the trail system for safety considerations. The technical nature of the terrain, combined with the self-supported sections between the single aid station, creates a unique challenge that tests both running skills and race strategy.

Elevation Profile

Elevation profile estimated from terrain data. Actual course may differ.

The course gains 430 ft over 7 miles, with the steepest section between mile 2–mile 2.

Location

Practical Info

Weather

Mid-October in Kansas typically brings mild temperatures with potential for variable conditions.

Nearest Airport

MCI - Kansas City International Airport

Accommodation

Lake Charles area offers limited local lodging; Kansas City metro area provides more extensive accommodation options about 45 minutes away.

Required Gear
  • Hydration device or water bottle

Best For

Experienced trail runnersTechnical terrain enthusiastsLoop race specialists

Notable Features

The Free State Trail Run's defining characteristic is its uncompromising commitment to technical single-track terrain. Unlike many trail races that mix easier sections with challenging ones, every step of this course demands attention and skill. The loop format creates a unique dynamic where runners can adjust their race strategy with each pass through the start/finish area, accessing drop bags and reassessing their approach based on evolving conditions and fatigue levels.

Other Distances at This Event

Half Marathon

52 ft gain

The entire course consists of single-track trails winding through a hardwood forest, with the trail surface characterized by rocks and technical sections that demand careful foot placement. Runners traverse the same 6.75-mile loop multiple times depending on their chosen distance, with occasional glimpses of Lake Perry breaking through the forest canopy. Each loop includes 752 feet of climbing and descending, though the course deliberately avoids the tallest hills in the trail system for safety considerations. The technical nature of the terrain, combined with the self-supported sections between the single aid station, creates a unique challenge that tests both running skills and race strategy.

Marathon

144 ft gain

The entire course consists of single-track trails winding through a hardwood forest, with the trail surface characterized by rocks and technical sections that demand careful foot placement. Runners traverse the same 6.75-mile loop multiple times depending on their chosen distance, with occasional glimpses of Lake Perry breaking through the forest canopy. Each loop includes 752 feet of climbing and descending, though the course deliberately avoids the tallest hills in the trail system for safety considerations. The technical nature of the terrain, combined with the self-supported sections between the single aid station, creates a unique challenge that tests both running skills and race strategy.

40 Miles

751 ft gain

The entire course consists of single-track trails winding through a hardwood forest, with the trail surface characterized by rocks and technical sections that demand careful foot placement. Runners traverse the same 6.75-mile loop multiple times depending on their chosen distance, with occasional glimpses of Lake Perry breaking through the forest canopy. Each loop includes 752 feet of climbing and descending, though the course deliberately avoids the tallest hills in the trail system for safety considerations. The technical nature of the terrain, combined with the self-supported sections between the single aid station, creates a unique challenge that tests both running skills and race strategy.