Deer Lake Outdoor Center Bringing Back the Trail Run

Sign Up for the Trail Run, to Sponsor, or to be a Part of the Return of This Event

Killingworth, March 3, 2026— Deer Lake Outdoor Center is thrilled to announce the return of the 2026 Deer Lake 5 Mile Trail Run on Sunday, April 26, 2026. 

After a seven year pause and a change of ownership, the Deer Lake Trail Run is back. Deer Lake Outdoor Center, formerly Deer Lake Scout Reservation, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to accessible outdoor education while protecting their more than 250 acres of green space and miles of trails. 

Come to rural Killingworth, CT to run, walk, or hike the Deer Lake Trail Run. We’ve tweaked the route, increasing the distance to a challenging 5(ish)-mile course, involving almost 500 ft of elevation gain. The route traverses the 250+ acre property and offers many scenic views as you navigate the ever-changing elevations on well-marked trails. This is a true trail course, and the technical nature of the terrain will mean that you will be exposed to rocks, roots, possible mud, etc. 

Awards will be given to the overall male and female winners plus the male and female winners for eight age groups. Please note that anyone participating under 10 years of age must be accompanied by an adult along the entire racecourse. T-Shirts guaranteed for the first 100 entrees, so sign up today! Please no dogs allowed.

Trail Run Information

Location: Deer Lake Outdoor Center at 101 Papermill Road, Killingworth, CT

Time: Registration: 8:00 am – 8:45 am, Run: starts 9:00 am

Fee: $30 when you sign up before March 15 

Sign up: https://runsignup.com/Race/CT/Killingworth/DeerLakeTrailRun

Sponsors Wanted

This event is looking for sponsors! If you want to be a part of the 2026 Deer Lake Trail Run and a new tradition in Killingworth, this is your chance to get in! Help support Deer Lake Outdoor Center, the beautiful trails, and the Connecticut running community.

Many sponsorship options are available so reach out now for more information at jessie@deerlakeoutdoors.org.

About Deer Lake Outdoor Center

Deer Lake Outdoor Center is a place where youth-groups and families can go camping year-round; where children leave their electronics behind and spend their summers swimming, singing, canoeing, getting dirty, and making life-long friends; where anyone can try rock climbing or learn new outdoor skills; where plants and animals thrive contributing to a healthier natural ecosystem, and where anyone can enjoy an afternoon hiking the trails.

Learn more about Deer Lake Outdoor Center: https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/ 

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