Winona Lake Trail Fest Preview

Get ready for a full weekend on the trails! The Winona Lake Trail Fest returns September 25-27, 2026, at Hauth Trailhead in Winona Lake, bringing mountain biking, trail running, kids’ activities, live music, food, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy one of northern Indiana’s favorite trail systems.

KCV Cycling designed the weekend with the whole community in mind. You can race for hours, tackle a trail run, introduce your kids to mountain biking, or simply come out and enjoy the action.

Even better, the weekend supports continued outdoor recreation in our community, including the Hauth Trailhead Expansion and future Winona Lake Bike Park.

Take On The 6 Or 12 Hour MTB Fun Race

Saturday’s 6- and 12 Hour MTB Fun Race is one of the weekend’s biggest events. The action starts at 10:30 a.m. on September 26 and continues through 10:30 p.m. for riders taking on the full 12-hour challenge.

Riders can choose the 6-hour or 12-hour race and compete solo or with teammates. The 12-hour race allows teams of up to four riders, and a Class 1 e-MTB category adds another way to join the fun. As evening arrives, riders completing the final 12-hour laps will need lights.

Whether you’re chasing laps or cheering from the sidelines, expect plenty of friendly competition. KCV keeps the focus on community and fun rather than taking the scoring too seriously.

Run, Walk, Or Hike The Trails

You don’t need a bike to take part in the Winona Lake Trail Fest. Sunday starts with the Trail 5K/10K Fun Run & Walk at 10 a.m.

Both routes take participants onto the dirt and through the woods on the east side of the Winona Lake Trails. Runners can push for a fast finish, while walkers and hikers can enjoy the course at their own pace. KCV will also award prizes to winners in their respective categories.

Give Young Riders A Weekend To Remember

Kids don’t have to sit on the sidelines. In fact, they’ll find opportunities throughout the weekend to explore the trails, improve their skills, and experience a little friendly competition.

The kids’ lineup includes:

• Finding Bigfoot Kids Night Ride & Scavenger Hunt: Friday, September 25 at 7:30 p.m. Riders ages 17 and under can bring their lights for a guided night ride and scavenger hunt. Parents and siblings can ride along.
• MTB Kids Skills Clinics: Saturday, September 26 at noon and 2 p.m. Trained KCV MTB Skills Program leaders will help young riders learn and improve their mountain bike skills on a fun course at Hauth Trailhead.
• MTB Kids Races: Sunday, September 27 from noon to 3 p.m. K-12 riders can test themselves on a 2-3 mile trail loop, with categories and lap counts designed for different ages.

These activities give kids at different experience levels a chance to get involved, whether they’re still building confidence or they’re ready to race.

Come For The Trails, Stay For The Community

You don’t have to register for a race to have a great weekend. On Saturday, food trucks and refreshments will be available from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with acoustic classic rock starting at 8 p.m.

Last year’s event drew nearly 300 participants, plus spectators, to Hauth Trailhead, including visitors from across Indiana and several other Midwest states. The weekend combined competition with a shared goal of supporting the Winona Lake Trails and future bike park.

This year’s Winona Lake Trail Fest gives us another chance to bring riders, runners, families, and trail supporters together.

Ready to join the fun? Make plans for September 25-27, register for your events, and meet us at Hauth Trailhead for a weekend on the Winona Lake Trails.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2026 Winona Lake Trail Fest?

The Winona Lake Trail Fest runs September 25-27, 2026, at Hauth Trailhead, 900 E. Pierceton Road in Winona Lake, Indiana.

Do I have to race to attend?

No. Spectators and community members can come out to enjoy the trails, kids’ activities, food, refreshments, live music, and race action throughout the weekend.

Are there activities for beginner or younger riders?

Yes. Kids can choose from Friday’s night ride and scavenger hunt, Saturday’s MTB skills clinics, and Sunday’s kids’ races. These activities provide several ways for young riders to participate throughout the weekend.

What does the event support?

The weekend raises awareness and funds to help the community stay active outdoors, with support going toward the Hauth Trailhead Expansion and future Winona Lake Bike Park.