Delaware Trail Fest

Delaware Trail Fest, held at Lums Pond State Park in Bear, Delaware, centers on laps around a lake instead of a point-to-point course. Participants can select from a 12K, a 24K, a 12-hour solo event named Lone Wolf, or a 12-hour four-person relay. The shorter races are straightforward: the 12K involves one circuit of the lake, and the 24K requires two circuits. In the Lone Wolf race, solo runners complete as many laps as possible around the approximately 7.35-mile loop within the 12-hour timeframe. Relay teams follow the same format, with team members taking turns on the course, one at a time. The course follows the Swamp Forest Trail, remaining almost entirely unpaved, consisting of about 70% single track, 10% gravel, and 20% wider trail. The terrain features minimal elevation change, meaning the primary challenges involve pacing, footing, and endurance rather than climbing. Aid stations are positioned every 3 to 4 miles, offering water, Gatorade, and typical race provisions. The event welcomes hikers and employs full age grading, a system that adjusts results based on age and gender, allowing competitors from various demographics to contend within unified standings. Additional participant perks include an event sweatshirt for all, custom hats for 12K and 24K finishers, German milestone awards for Lone Wolf participants, and an ongoing food service throughout the day culminating in a post-race buffet.