Mound Westonka Rotary - Spirit of the Lakes 5K

Mound Westonka Rotary - Spirit of the Lakes 5K returns to Mound, Minnesota on Saturday, July 18th, 2026. The race begins and ends at Lost Lake Commons in downtown Mound, situated along the Dakota Rail Regional Trail. This inaugural event is a part of the final day of the Spirit of the Lakes Festival.
The setting on race morning is tranquil and picturesque with Lost Lake Commons as the backdrop. Participants will start their journey from this central location, weaving through the park’s trails before heading out onto the Dakota Rail Regional Trail for an out-and-back course. The atmosphere here is a mix of natural beauty and community spirit—Lost Lake Commons offers a serene environment that enhances the race experience.
The Mound-Westonka Rotary Club has established a rich tradition with this event, aiming to support local causes through their foundation. This marks its first year as part of the Spirit of the Lakes Festival, making it not just a 5K run but an integral component of community celebration and engagement. Since its inception, the race has attracted participants from various age groups, fostering a sense of unity among families and friends.
The course venue is characterized by its flat terrain along the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, offering runners a smooth experience with minimal elevation changes. The out-and-back layout ensures that racers get to enjoy both directions of the trail, providing them with scenic views while maintaining an efficient race route. At key points on the course, participants can expect to see aid stations where they can grab refreshments if needed.
On this day in July 2026, temperatures will range between 18°C and 27°C, feeling quite comfortable at around 22°C with a humidity level of 73%. The UV index is rated as very high, so participants are advised to wear sunscreen. A gentle breeze of about 10.5 km/h will provide some relief from the heat but also requires runners to stay hydrated.
The Mound Westonka Rotary - Spirit of the Lakes 5K offers a 5k Run and Kids 5k (for ages 12 and under) at $45 for adults, with kids aged 7 and under registering free. For those who wish to support or participate in this inaugural event, registration can be done through https://raceroster.com/events/2026/119179/mound-westonka-rotary-spirit-of-the-lakes-5k.
Bib pickup is available on Thursday and Friday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Surfside Park, or Saturday morning between 7:30 AM to the race start. Participants should bring their own ID for verification during check-in.
The starting line of this 5K run will be located at Lost Lake Commons on Shoreline Drive in Mound, Minnesota. The event welcomes runners and families alike, with age requirements that cater from seasoned athletes to beginners. First-time participants are encouraged to arrive early to ensure they have time to prepare and familiarize themselves with the course.
The race is part of a larger community festival, with the Spirit of the Lakes Parade following at 10:00 AM on the same day. This event supports local scholarships and community projects through the Mound Westonka Rotary Foundation. The unique blend of a competitive run and a celebratory parade makes this race particularly special.
The inaugural Mound Westonka Rotary - Spirit of the Lakes 5K, taking place in Minnesota on July 18th, is not just about running; it's an opportunity to contribute to community development through supporting local causes. Whether you're aiming for your personal best or simply enjoying a family-friendly outing, this event offers something for everyone and should definitely be considered by those looking for an impactful race experience.