Pere Malfait Trail Race 2026

The Pere Malfait Trail Race takes place on the levee trail encircling Bussey Brake Wildlife Management Area, near Bastrop, Louisiana. Participants can choose from 50K, 16-mile, or 8-mile distances. The course is predominantly flat, presenting a challenge focused on sustained running rather than elevation gain. Runners will encounter sun on the initial section, followed by shaded areas, and must navigate footing around holes and ant mounds. Two aid stations are available: a main hub at the start/finish offering hot food, and an on-course stop near mile four providing ice, water, electrolytes, and snacks. The food selection is practical, including PB&J, chips, cookies, quesadillas, grilled cheese, pickles, candy, crackers, potatoes, gummies, sodas, and vegan choices. All finishers receive medals. Custom plaques are awarded to the top three male and female runners. The race is named after Pere Malfait, a figure from Louisiana folklore whose name translates to “father of mischief,” also known locally as Moss Man.