Mott Lake Trail Run (3Mile | 5Mile | 12.5K) 2026

The Mott Lake Trail Run begins and ends at Bluebell Beach in Flint, Michigan, offering three distances: a 3 Mile run/walk, a 5 Mile run, and a 12.5K run. The event takes place on a Saturday morning in early September. The longest distance starts first, with the shorter races beginning a few minutes later. It is a chip-timed trail and path event, but the majority of the surface is paved, making it suitable for runners seeking a firm surface while still enjoying the lake and woods. The course winds through the Flint River Trail area, passing Mott Lake and Stepping Stone Falls. It combines lakeside sections, wooded paths, and smooth pavement with only minor elevation changes. The 3 Mile course is entirely on paved trail. The 5 Mile course is fully paved, including a brief section on Branch Road marked with cones. The 12.5K is mostly paved, incorporating Branch Road and James Basset Drive. The route is marked with signs, cones, and field paint, and potential trip hazards are identified. The 3 Mile is ideal for beginners and walkers, the 5 Mile offers a mid-range option for runners, and the 12.5K serves as good preparation for fall races. Registration includes a Dri-Fit shirt, a finisher medal, race photos, awards, and post-race refreshments. The event benefits the Trecho Fitness Foundation, supporting fitness programs and scholarships for underserved youth and individuals impacted by substance abuse or trauma.