Woodcock Nature Center welcomes runners, hikers and walkers of all ages at its annual Where the Wild Things Run 5K and Kids Fun Run on Sunday, Oct. 14. For several decades, this event has highlighted Woodcock’s nearly five miles of publicly accessible trails and has raised money for the nature center’s various educational programs.
The popular 5K, which kicks-off at 9 a.m., is 90% trail with a mix of groomed trails, rugged trails and narrow bridges/boardwalks. The terrain of the 5K will highlight the diversity and beauty of the Woodcock property. A shorter 1K Kids Fun Run geared towards ages 6-and-up kicks-off at 8:30 a.m., on a course that is appropriate for walkers and runners of all ages. Parents are welcome to accompany their children.
After the Kids Fun Run families are invited to stick around for some unique post-race festivities on the nature center grounds including food, music, nature crafts, animal encounters, and more. The nature center building, which is home to more than 30 reptiles and amphibians, will be open for visiting as will the natural playground and brand new fitness trail.
Organizers are expecting over 150 participants, so runners are encouraged to register in advance on the Woodcock website. Race fees are $35 for the 5K and $20 for the Kids Fun Run. Race t-shirts will be provided to the first 100 registrants.
Pre-race packet pickup and registration will also take place at Ridgefield Running Company in Ridgefield on Friday, Oct. 12 and Outdoor Sports Center in Wilton on Saturday, Oct. 13. Day-of packet pick-up and registration at Woodcock opens at 7:30 a.m..
Parking is available along Deer Run Rd. and Fawn Place but is limited and will require up to a one-third-mile walk to the start. Participants are urged to arrive early and car-pooling is encouraged. Leashed dogs are also welcome. Please note that the trails are not stroller friendly.
For more info and to register visit woodcocknaturecenter.org. Special thanks to trail sponsors Outdoor Sports Center and Ridgefield Pediatrics.