Discovery Dash 5K/10K and 1 Mile Fun Run

Looking for the most unusual fall race in the world?

Lace up for the 2026 Discovery Dash on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, at Discovery Park of America. This year, experience the 50-acre heritage park in full autumn splendor, complete with crisp fall air and The Settlement transformed into a festive Pumpkin Village.

The route meanders through a man-made river, waterfalls, bridges and other scenic features. No other course lets you dash past a 120-year-old church, an 1800s frontier settlement, a reproduction of an early 19th-century town and a complete vintage train station.

From race-day check-in and pre-race entertainment to the inflatable archway finish line, finisher certificates and winner medals, you won’t want to miss a moment.

Awards will be presented in the 5K and 10K for males and females in the following age categories:

12 and under
13-19
20-29
30-39
40-49
50-59
60-69
70 and over

Schedule:

6:30-7:45 a.m. — Registration
8 a.m. — 10K begins
8:30 a.m. — 5K begins
9 a.m. — 1-mile fun run begins
9:30 a.m. — Awards ceremony

Registration for the 5K and 1-mile fun run before Aug. 31 is $25 and includes a Discovery Dash T-shirt and two complimentary admission tickets to Discovery Park for the day. Beginning Sept. 1, registration increases to $30, and T-shirts will be available while supplies last.

Registration for the 10K before Aug. 31 is $30 and includes a Discovery Dash T-shirt and two complimentary admission tickets to Discovery Park for the day. Beginning Sept. 1, registration increases to $35, and T-shirts will be available while supplies last.

Sponsors include Thompson CAT Machinery.