The Kansas Rails-to-Trails Extravaganza returns to Ottawa, Kansas on October 24th, featuring a variety of distances for runners of all levels. The event is known for its unique finisher's buckles and complimentary race photos, making it a memorable experience for participants. Registration fees range from $30 for the 5 Miler up to $250 for the grueling 160.9K 100 Mile course. On the morning of October 24th, runners will gather at Celebration Hall in Ottawa to begin their journey on the Prairie Spirit Trail. The race starts with a short out-and-back section before heading south through quaint towns like Iola and Garnett for longer events or Richmond and Princeton for shorter distances. At approximately 6 AM, participants of the longest distance races take off, followed by staggered start times as late as 8 AM for half-marathoners and marathon runners. The atmosphere is expected to be family-friendly with spectators cheering on racers from various locations along the trail. The Kansas Rails-to-Trails Extravaganza has been a tradition in Ottawa since its inception, supporting local causes through participant fees. Over the years, it has attracted thousands of runners who come for both the scenic route and the challenge of distance running. The event raises funds that benefit local scholarships and community programs, making every step count towards a greater cause. The course follows the Prairie Spirit Trail, which is primarily made up of crushed limestone with asphalt paths through towns adding variety to the terrain. Aid stations are well-placed approximately every five miles, providing essential hydration and nutrition throughout the race day. Pacers will be allowed for the last half-mile stretches, giving experienced runners an opportunity to push their limits. The weather forecast in Ottawa on October 24th suggests average temperatures around 16.8°C with a minimum of 11.2°C and a maximum of 22.4°C. The trail conditions are expected to be firm yet slightly soft underfoot, ideal for long-distance running without the risk of excessive fatigue or injury.
Registration for The Kansas Rails-to-Trails Extravaganza can be completed at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=139329. Fees vary depending on the distance chosen, with discounts available when registering early. Registration closes one week before the event date to ensure organization and permit compliance. Participants should plan for a 7 AM shuttle from Celebration Hall in Ottawa if they are racing distances that require it. Bib pickup will take place at the same location two days prior to race day, where participants must show their registration confirmation email or receipt. Age requirements vary by distance but generally range from any age child with adult supervision up to 18 for some youth events and open to all adults for longer races. The Kansas Rails-to-Trails Extravaganza in Ottawa, Kansas on October 24th is a celebration of running through scenic trails and quaint towns. The event’s firm trail conditions offer an ideal setting for serious runners looking to set personal records or simply enjoy the beauty of rural Kansas while supporting local causes.
Races Offered
100 Miler
Oct 24, 2026
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Distance —
160.9K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
06:00
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$250.00
100K
Oct 24, 2026
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Distance —
100K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
06:00
sell
$180.00
50 Miler
Oct 24, 2026
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Distance —
80.5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$130.00
1/2 Marathon
Oct 24, 2026
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Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
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$50.00
5 Miler
Oct 24, 2026
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Distance —
8K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$30.00
50K
Oct 24, 2026
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Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$100.00
Marathon
Oct 24, 2026
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Distance —
42.2K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$80.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Ottawa.
thermostatTemperature
11.2° / 22.4°
wb_sunnyFeels like
7.8° / 18.9°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 1m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.6 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
15.0 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
55.9%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:41
nightlight
Sunset
18:50
About Ottawa
Learn more about the host city, Ottawa.
Ottawa is a town in Eastern Kansas, USA which was founded by Baptist missionaries in 1867 on land that had been inhabited by Native Americans of the Ottawa tribe.
