Dana Peak Trail Run

The Dana Peak Trail Run returns to Harker Heights, Texas on October 3rd, offering a challenging course through the trails of Dana Peak Park along Stillhouse Hollow lake.
On race morning, runners will gather at the park entrance near the north shore of Stillhouse Hollow Lake. The air is crisp as participants arrive before sunrise for packet pickup and final preparations. As temperatures hover around an average of 23 degrees Celsius, the atmosphere remains comfortable despite early October humidity levels reaching about 56%.
Established to challenge even seasoned trail runners, this event has run annually since its inception in 2017. Over the years, it has become a significant part of the local running community calendar. Each year sees hundreds of participants tackling distances ranging from the grueling 100K to the more accessible but still demanding 10K race. The Dana Peak Trail Run is not just about pushing personal limits; proceeds benefit trail maintenance and conservation efforts in Harker Heights.
The course itself winds through rugged terrain, with rocky paths ascending and descending multiple peaks along Stillhouse Hollow Lake's shoreline. Racers can expect to navigate hard-packed trails that offer both wooded sections and open stretches with scenic views of the lake. The route is well-marked but requires careful attention; aid stations are strategically placed every 7 miles for longer distances like the 100K and 50K.
Weather on race day typically ranges from a minimum temperature of around 17 degrees Celsius to a high near 29 degrees, with an average wind speed of about 11.8 kilometers per hour and minimal risk of rainfall at only 2.4 millimeters expected. UV index hovers moderately around 4.
Each distance follows Dana Peak's single loop trail system, ascending several peaks throughout the race course without significant repeat trails. All runners must carry a hydration device as part of their gear to ensure they stay hydrated on this challenging route.
Registration for the Dana Peak Trail Run is available at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=134879 until 2 weeks prior to the event, after which race credits are issued instead. Entry fees vary by distance: $55 for the 10K, $90 for the 20K, $110 for the 50K, and $135 for the elite 100K category.
Packet pickup is held at Dana Peak Park on Friday evening between 6 PM and 8 PM. All runners must carpool due to park entry fees of $5 per vehicle; camping within the park overnight before race day is permitted but primitive conditions apply, with only tent or standard parking space RVs allowed.
Participants should arrive prepared for a rigorous day out in nature. The start line is located at Dana Peak Park entrance on Stillhouse Hollow Lake's north shore. Age requirements are open to runners aged 18 years and older; younger participants may be considered under special circumstances by contacting the event organizers directly via email or phone.
The Dana Peak Trail Run, taking place in Harker Heights, Texas on October 3rd, is a compelling challenge for trail enthusiasts seeking both scenic beauty and physical endurance testing. The race's commitment to supporting local conservation efforts through participant fees makes it more than just another run; it’s an opportunity to contribute positively to the community while enjoying some of Texas' most dramatic terrain.