The Great Scorpion Trail Run returns to Meridian, Mississippi on January 9th, bringing together runners for a challenging yet scenic event through Bonita Lakes Park. Participants can expect a mix of single-track trails and jeep roads, featuring roots, rocks, and rolling hills that test endurance while offering panoramic views of the surrounding lakes. This trail run has been an annual tradition since its inception in 2018, with each year drawing hundreds of runners eager to tackle the varied terrain. Race day begins early on Bonita Reservoir Road at dawn when temperatures typically hover around freezing but are generally comfortable for running given the firm and slightly soft trail conditions. The course is meticulously marked with red plastic plates bearing a scorpion logo, along with red and black flagging tape and neon green arrows painted directly onto the ground to guide runners without confusion. Runners can also set up their own pit stops near the parking area located right on the race route. The Great Scorpion Trail Run offers participants three distance options: 50K, 25K, and 12.5K, each attracting a diverse group of competitors ranging from seasoned ultrarunners to casual trail runners looking for an invigorating morning adventure in Meridian’s scenic Bonita Lakes Park.
50K 50K • Start: 06:30:00 • Fee: $65.00
25K 25K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $45.00
12.5K 12.5K • Start: 07:15:00 • Fee: $35.00
For those interested in participating, registration can be completed through the event website at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=138434. The entry fees are $65.00 for the 50K distance, $45.00 for the 25K, and $35.00 for the 12.5K. Packet pickup will be available on Friday, January 2nd from 4pm to 7pm at the race site finish line in Boat Landing area of Bonita Lakes Park or alternatively on race day starting at 5am near the start location. The morning of the event, runners should gather at 66 Bonita Reservoir Road for packet pickup and pre-race preparations. The course will be clearly marked with detailed instructions provided to ensure a smooth start without any delays. For first-time participants looking to make their entry count, it’s recommended to arrive early to familiarize yourself with the layout of the trail. The Great Scorpion Trail Run in Meridian, Mississippi on January 9th continues its legacy as one of the most anticipated winter trail races for serious runners and casual enthusiasts alike, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and challenging terrain that draws participants back year after year.
Races Offered
50K
Jan 09, 2027
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Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
06:30
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$65.00
25K
Jan 09, 2027
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Distance —
25K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
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$45.00
12.5K
Jan 09, 2027
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Distance —
12.5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:15
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$35.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for January in Meridian.
thermostatTemperature
3.0° / 13.3°
wb_sunnyFeels like
-0.9° / 10.1°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
7h 12m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
4.2 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
12.0 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Low (2.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
71.1%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:54
nightlight
Sunset
18:12
About Meridian
Learn more about the host city, Meridian.
Meridian is a city in Mississippi. It was a titan of commerce of sorts during the Reconstruction era and up through the Great Depression, even after General Tecumseh Sherman had torched it, due to its being a hub to five major rail lines and manufacturing during its golden age. It is now a treasure trove for some of the architecture preserved from that period. Meridian is also noted for being the location of the US v. Cecil Price court case, where several Ku Klux Klan members were charged for the abduction and murder of three Civil Rights workers in 1964 in nearby Neshoba County, an event analogously portrayed in the film Mississippi Burning.
