Winter Trail Fest (WTF) Half Marathon and 5 Mile - Westside

Winter Trail Fest (WTF) Half Marathon and 5 Mile - Westside takes place on February 20, 2027 in the Yankee Springs Recreation Area near Middleville, Michigan. The half marathon (13.1 miles) and its ruck division start at 12:00 p.m., with the 5-mile run and 5-mile ruck following at 12:30 p.m. This is winter trail and rucking racing, so expect snow, mud, ice and a river crossing, with an alternate route available if you want to avoid the water. The field mixes first-time trail runners, experienced winter athletes and ruckers. Finishers get a hoodie and a medal, campfires and a friendly atmosphere are part of the day, and running the Summer Trail Fest Ultra as well completes a medal series.

Forget pace here. Footing dictates effort on snow and ice, so run by feel and plan your shoes, traction and layers around a midday start. If you are new to trails, the 5-mile option is the smarter first step.