The River Run

The River Run covers multiple community races held along rivers, with events in Chicago and Montgomery, Illinois, Wichita, Kansas, and Spokane, Washington. The Chicago Race for the River 5K takes place at River Park, utilizing a river trail connected to the Chicago-Calumet River system. Wichita’s Fidelity Bank River Run, a component of Wichita Riverfest, offers a 10K, 5K, wheelchair 5K, and a 1-mile untimed Family Fun Run/Walk. Montgomery’s River Run is a yearly 5K, 10K, and Kids’ Dash held on the first Saturday in October, starting and ending at the Village Hall. The Spokane River Run at Riverside State Park is the most trail-focused option, featuring 5K, 10K, 25K, 50K, relay, challenge, and tag-team races. It is one of the oldest trail runs in the Pacific Northwest and has been featured in Trail Runner’s Trophy Series; it is organized entirely by volunteers. Proceeds from the race benefit the Garfield Elementary A.P.P.L.E. program and associated youth groups, with 25K and 50K participants receiving medals. Wichita and Montgomery emphasize family participation: Wichita suggests costumes and colorful attire for its 1-mile run/walk, Montgomery permits pets, children, and strollers in its 5K, and all Kids’ Dash finishers receive a medal.