Events
Event Description
This is a fall race that runs on both single and double track dirt. Participants have 5K/10K/15K options on a trail loop that takes you deep into the woods.
- Races will begin promptly at 9:00 AM
- Walkers may participate and are encouraged to register for one of the shorter races.
- The course will remain open for 3 hours.
- Proceeds from this race will be used to support Des Moines' dirt trail systems, the Stewards of Browns Woods, and the Capital Striders
- Click here to view the map of Brown's Woods (in PDF format). TGHWG will be completed on the outermost trail loop, which totals a 5K distance; 10K participants will be doing 2 loops, 15K participants will be doing 3 loops.
- While we love dogs, sadly our insurance does not permit them on the course during the event.
- Packet Pickup will be announced!
Race Information
Directions to Brown's Woods
From 235 or Grand Ave. go south on 63rd Ave and turn right on Brown’s Woods Drive; if you reach Army Post Rd. you’ve gone too far south. After turning right, turn right again and go right on the dead end road (Brown’s Woods Dr.) and park in the new paved lot. When this lot is full, you'll need to park in the old gravel lot 1/2 mile the other direction on Brown's Woods Drive. Please plan to carpool and arrive early. When coming from Route 5, SW Connector has been renamed Veterans Parkway. Address (to new parking lot): 495 Brown’s Woods Dr, West DSM, IA.
Parking
Please park in a designated spot and comply with all volunteer requests. Parking will be significantly limited so please plan to carpool and leave extra time for a potential 1/2 mile walk to the start area.
Photographer
We will have a photographer, Terry Kruse, on the course, and will share a link to download your free race picture(s) or make a purchase.
Course Markings
The course is marked with orange or pink ribbons and yellow signs with arrows. There are also signs stating "Wrong Way" to prevent turning down side paths. You will see a course marker at least every quarter mile.
Course/Footing
The course tends to be dry with a hard, uneven surface. Be careful of crossing the wooden bridges or stepping on the wood steps as they can be really slippery from morning dew. Also watch for ruts in the ground and watch your footing throughout the race. There will be cones placed in large holes (when known) and larger stumps and roots will be marked. Remember the motto is "If you look up, you are going down." This is a trail race; be ready for a fun adventure!
Bathrooms
Park bathrooms and water fountain are not guaranteed to be available and are dependent on closures due to cold temperatures. Two portable toilets will be available for use on race day.
Leaves of 3
Please be careful to not touch or brush the sides of the trail. Many of the Poison Ivy plants are turning red and drooping, but there are others, less obvious and still green. "Leaves of 3, leave them be!" This race has ground poison ivy and vines that grow quickly into the path. Some of the other plants to the sides of the trails also have thorns. Please be aware of your surroundings throughout the race. Vigorous scrubbing with Dawn (degreaser) Soap works well to prevent an allergic reaction; best when used in the first 24-48 hours following the race.
Passing
If you need to pass a runner in front of you and you are on a narrow section of the course, please be courteous and say, "On your left," and then pass on his/her left side.
Weather and Bugs
The weather tends to be unpredictable (average start temp of 65 degrees with daily highs at or above 80 degrees) with high humidity. With these weather conditions, you may want to wear or bring bug spray since you will be running within dense woods and near water. Some runners may also want sun block and/or sunglasses.
Contact Form
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Event Location
Brown's Woods
195 SE Brown's Woods Ct., West Des Moines
West Des Moines, IA 50265 US
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