UNpaved
Big River UNPAVED
Have you considered getting into trail running or hiking, but didn’t know where to start, or were apprehensive about venturing out onto the trails alone? Big River Unpaved is a FREE, fun, friendly, and first-class training program for runners and walkers of all abilities. This program is geared for people new to hiking or trail running, looking for a fun, social, and supportive atmosphere in which to venture out into the outdoors. Our trail excursions will be supported by guides who will help you “stay found” and share knowledge about trail etiquette and technique. Our trail excursions will help make hitting the trails more comfortable and accessible by providing comradery and education in a fun, social, and supportive atmosphere.
The Fall 2026 Unpaved season will run from October 11 through December 20.
"It was so great to get out on the trails - I needed the community support to motivate me."
"I liked that this group got me to try trails. Something I would not have done on my own!"
Details
WHEN: Sunday mornings at 8:00 a.m. from October 11 through December 20.
WHERE: We will run and hike on various trails throughout the St. Louis metro area. Some of these trails will be a 30-60 minute drive from the city and mid-county. The location schedule will be shared with registered participants.
WHY: Hiking, rucking, and trail running are fun! Our experienced Guides are looking forward to sharing their love of the outdoors, and helping you become more comfortable and confident on the trails.
HOW: We will run and hike in various groups to accommodate different paces. This program is BEGINNER FRIENDLY and is geared toward those newer to trail running/hiking/rucking or looking to become more confident on the trails.
Hiking Pace - Our Hiking Guides will support a hike pace of approximately 2.5 miles/hour or 24:00/mile or faster. Participants desiring to hike slower are welcome to attend but may be hiking without Guide support.
Ruckers welcome!
A weekly newsletter will keep participants informed and share educational content.
Age Requirements - For safety reasons, we cannot accommodate unaccompanied minors. Those under 18 must be accompanied by (running/hiking with) their guardian for the duration of any trail excursion.
We will have both running and hiking groups to accommodate a variety of paces.
Most groups will have multiple Guides. Our friendly and passionate Guides will help you "stay found," share their knowledge, and help you become more confident on the trails.
"I loved that all availability levels were included and the guides were awesome."
"I learned a lot, the guides were super helpful and very knowledgeable."
"All of the guides I met were great! It was nice to not have to worry about where to go. I could focus on my footing, the scenery, and myself to make it to the finish."
Important Dates
Saturday, October 3: Unpaved trail demo at Queeny Park
TBD: Participant Orientation
Sunday, October 11: First Sunday morning trail excursion
Sunday, October 18: Deadline to purchase a shirt
Goal races
Thanks For Your Support!
