Brown County State Park in Indiana is a renowned destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities and events throughout the year. One of the most anticipated events in the park is the annual Brown County State Park Race, which attracts adventure-seekers and competitive athletes from across the region.
Upcoming Races at Brown County State Park
Brown County Epic
- Date: October 11-13, 2024
- Description: A mountain bike festival with routes ranging from 25 to 61 miles, featuring pristine singletrack, bluegrass music, food, and camping.
- Registration: Includes unlimited good vibes, recommended routes on Trailforks, food, drinks, basic bike assistance, swag bag, post-ride dinner, and more. Camping available by the pool on Friday and Saturday evenings.
- Rules:
- No marked course; use Trailforks or GPS routes.
- No fires on the ground; use elevated fire pits.
- State Park and Forest Trails require a DNR off-road cycling permit.
- Trail D and 10 O’Clock Line trails are open to horses; be respectful and ask how to safely pass.
- The event is not a race; riders can start anytime and modify the official route as desired.
Brown County YMCA Hilly Half Marathon
- Date: November 16, 2024
- Description: A half marathon, 10K, and 5K scenic route through Brown County State Park.
- Start Times:
- Half Marathon: 9:00 AM
- 10K: 9:15 AM
- 5K: 9:30 AM
- Registration: No refunds or deferrals; register early for guaranteed t-shirts.
DINO MTB Series
- Date: June 2, 2024
- Description: A mountain bike race with various divisions, including Intro, Junior, Base, Clydesdale, Fatbike, Sport, and Expert.
- Registration Fees:
- Intro or Junior: $20 online, $30 day of, $100 for season pass
- Base, Clydesdale, or Fatbike: $30 online, $40 day of, $150 for season pass
- Sport: $35 online, $45 day of, $175 for season pass
- Expert: $40 online, $50 day of, $200 for season pass
- Rules:
- No refunds for any series race or event.
- No transfers within two weeks prior to the event date.
- Awards held at 1:45 PM.
DINO Trail Run
- Date: June 1, 2024
- Description: A 15K and 5K trail run through Brown County State Park.
- Start Times:
- 15K: 9:00 AM
- 5K: 9:10 AM
- DINO Kids Run: 10:30 AM
- Registration: Online registration closes Thursday, May 30th, at 9:00 AM.
Amenities for Participants and Spectators
Brown County State Park offers a variety of amenities to cater to the needs of participants and spectators during the races.
Camping
The park’s large campground provides on-site camping options, and reservations are recommended to secure a spot.
Swimming Pool
A swimming pool is available near the race start and finish areas, offering a refreshing respite for participants and spectators.
Nature Center
The park’s nature center provides information about the trails and wildlife, allowing visitors to learn more about the local ecosystem.
Lodge and Restaurant
The park’s lodge and restaurant offer food and accommodations for those attending the races.
Cabins
Visitors can also rent cabins within the park for a more comfortable and private stay.
Horse Riding
The park’s trails are open to horseback riding, allowing equestrian enthusiasts to explore the scenic landscapes.
Hiking
In addition to the racing events, the park’s extensive trail system offers ample opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Conclusion
Brown County State Park is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and the annual races held within the park are a testament to the region’s commitment to promoting active and adventurous lifestyles. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a casual spectator, the Brown County State Park Race offers an unforgettable experience amidst the park’s stunning natural surroundings.
References:
- https://www.browncountymtb.org/brown-county-epic
- https://browncountyhillyhalf.com
- https://www.dinoseries.com/mtb-brown-county-state-park
- https://runsignup.com/Race/IN/Nashville/DINOTrailRunBrownCountyStatePark
- https://www.dinoseries.com/trail-run-brown-county-state-park