Sycamore 8

This hidden gem takes place the first weekend in December following the single-track dirt trail of the Sycamore Trail along the Des Moines River. Unpredictable winter weather in Iowa has brought rain, snow, and negative temps but has also brought picturesque 50-degree days and some of the fastest dirt trails in the state.

This race caters to veteran and new trail runners alike. With rolling single track, vast views of the Des Moines River and ever present wildlife, you don't want to miss your chance at a Des Moines tradition of capping off the racing season. Register early as entries are capped at 300 participants.

Race Info

Time & Location

  • Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024 (always the first weekend in December)

  • Time: 9:00 am race start

  • Location: Sycamore Trail in Johnston, IA

Course

  • 8-ish mile blend of groomed single track trail. The 2024 race will be an out-and-back from the north parking lot (no buses).

  • Check out the 2022 route map here.

SWAG / DOOr prizes

  • 2024 swag TO BE ANNOUNCED

Volunteer opportunities

• Not able to run with us on race day? Volunteers are GOLD and have just as much fun as the runners do! Sign up here to help out on race day:

Race Proceeds

RESULTS AND PHOTOS

2019 Photos shot by Terry Kruse

2018 Photos shot by Panfoto.us

2018 Results (updated within 48 hours of the event)

Previous Years Results (search December race results)

SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR 2024 SPONSORs:

PACKET PICKUP INFORMATION

Friday, December 6, 2024

4:00 - 6:00 pm

Fitness Sports, Johnston ( 5525 Merle Hay Road, Johnston )

If you are unable to attend packet pick-up on Friday, you will be able to pick it up before the race that morning.  Please try to come as early as possible.

RACE DAY INFORMATION

Parking

Limited Parking is available at the start/finish area at 4301 NW 66th Ave Johnston, IA (Johnston Soccer Fields). Additional parking is available at the Neal Smith Trailhead across the bridge to the East. There is a paved trail from the Neal Smith Trailhead parking lot, to the Starting Area.

Facilities

Porta-Potties will be available at the Start/Finish Area.

Course

The course will be marked with flags on the ground and fluorescent ribbons on trees. Pay attention to these markers to avoid getting lost.

Water

There will be one water stop at the mid point, and water and Gatorade will be available. If you will need more hydration than this provides, please bring your own bottle.

Free Race Photos

There will be photographers on the course. These photos will be available on Facebook after the race. Photography courtesy of Terry Kruse.

POST-RACE PARTY!

Goodsons on Beaver Ave!

Details

With winter inevitably approaching, why not start planning your events past “race season”? The Capital Striders Running Club has been given the honor of carrying on a Central Iowa tradition and will be hosting the Sycamore 8 Trail Run in Johnston.

This 8-ish mile race will take place on the Sycamore Trail in Johnston. With the perfect wintry blend of road and groomed single track trail it promises to be a wintry good time. Unpredictable Midwestern weather has always given participants a unique run whether it is dealing with snow, ice, sleet or flat out rain.

Plan on bringing the whole family to watch an event that not only promises a fun race, but unique prizes, amazing post race food and the perfect way to ring in the last month of the year.