Winter Trail Fest Half Marathon and 5 Mile - Eastside 2027

Winter Trail Fest East is a February trail race at Island Lake Recreation Area in Brighton, Michigan, offering half marathon and 5-mile options. The objective is to race through whatever winter conditions Michigan presents: snow, ice, slush, or mud. The start is scheduled for later morning, allowing runners and ruckers a bit more daylight and a better chance at milder temperatures before they begin on the trails. The half marathon route follows rolling singletrack, while the 5-mile course provides a shorter, quicker introduction to winter racing for less experienced trail runners. Both distances include run and ruck divisions, a distinctive feature for Michigan winter races that accommodates athletes carrying weighted packs. Finishers receive a WTF hoodie and medal. Racers participating in the Summer Trail Fest Ultra can also collect connecting medals as part of the WTF + STFU Trail Series.