Death by Staircase Trail Running Festival 2026

The Death by Staircase Trail Running Festival features the Skyline Shuffle, a 5K trail race at Clinton Lake, Kansas, put on by the Lawrence Trail Hawks. The race begins and ends at the southwest corner of Campground Three, the same location as the West Park Road aid station for the Hawk Hundred, 50-mile, and marathon trail races. It is accessible for beginners, yet the repeated ascent of Bunker Hill challenges experienced trail runners. The course ascends Bunker Hill for vistas of Clinton Lake, the park, and the sky, then descends into the woods where participants might get wet feet before climbing the hill again. Dogs may be registered as running partners, with entry fees supporting the Humane Society. Participants receive medals, the top three male and female runners get awards, and a breakfast is available at the finish. The race includes a local legend: Sky-Clintie, the official mascot, supposedly resides within Bunker Hill.