Geode Challenge Races
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Event overview
The Geode Challenge Races take place on October 18, 2025 near Danville, IA at Geode State Park (beach/shelter area). Distances offered are:
- 25K - double perimeter loop, about 15.5 miles
- 12K - single perimeter loop, about 7.75 miles
- 5K - out-and-back from beach to Shelter 1, about 3.1 miles
Online registration closes on Tue, Oct 14 at 11:59 PM CT. Online packet pick-up is scheduled the evening before the race at the beach shelter. Race day registration and packet pick-up are available in person for cash or check only, with a $5 increase in cost for each distance on race day.
Course and logistics
The trails include dirt single track, wider track, sections with large rock, small gravel, sand, mowed grass, short road sections, hills and a creek crossing. The perimeter loop has about 800 ft of vertical elevation; the 25K doubles that. The course will use Shelter 4 and is marked with flags, ribbons and signs. Water will be available at the start/finish for finishers and for 25K refills; Shelters 1 and 4 will have water and light snacks. Dogs are allowed on course; owners must keep leashes safe from other runners. All finishers receive a geode. Handmade wood-and-geode plaques will be given to first-place male and female at each distance, plus a TOP DOG plaque for first overall finishers running with a dog. Prize money is available only if existing course records are beaten. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.