RAPID CITY & BLACK HILLS EVENTS
Black Hills Turkey Trot 2026
November 26, 2026 · Old Storybook Island, Rapid City
Start Thanksgiving with fresh air, a little movement, and time together. The Black Hills Turkey Trot returns to Old Storybook Island Shelter in Rapid City on Thursday, November 26, 2026. Run the timed 5K or take a relaxed walk before the holiday meal. For guests spending Thanksgiving at Canyon Lake Resort, it is a fun way to add a local tradition to the weekend.
From Canyon Lake Resort: Approximately 2.2 driving miles · about 5–10 minutes. Get directions →
Distances start at 4510 Shore Drive. Route, traffic, weather, and event parking can change travel time.
Thanksgiving date, start location & times
Date: Thursday, November 26, 2026.
Start: Old Storybook Island Shelter, Rapid City.
Timed start: 9 a.m. Mountain Standard Time.
Walkers and untimed participants: Start after 8:30 a.m.
Meet at Old Storybook Island Shelter for the start. Save the race starting point in your maps before heading out; this is a different arrival point from the Storybook Island holiday lights.
What to expect at the Turkey Trot
Chasing a personal best? Join the timed 9 a.m. start. Prefer to walk and talk with family or friends? Untimed participants can head out after 8:30 a.m. You can make the morning as energetic or easygoing as you like, with plenty of Thanksgiving still ahead.
If your group moves at different speeds, pick a place to meet afterward. Bring a warm layer for the finish and give yourselves time to enjoy the morning before moving on to dinner preparations or a holiday reservation.
Registration, shirts & entry deadlines
Register by November 25 at 4 p.m. Adult entry is $28.97 through October 30 and $34.34 from October 31 through November 25, including mandatory charges. Want a Turkey Trot shirt? Order it separately by November 18.
Sign up for the 2026 Black Hills Turkey Trot and select the participation option that fits your plans. Your confirmation and race emails will have the final course and arrival instructions.
Packet pickup, parking & what to bring
Pick up your packet early: November 25, 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m., at Black Hills Running Company, 1130 W. Omaha Street, Rapid City.
Thanksgiving morning pickup: 7:30–8:15 a.m. Collecting your packet Wednesday leaves more time for a relaxed start on race day.
Parking options include Old Storybook Island Shelter, Storybook Island, and Sioux Park. Allow time for the walk to the start, especially if you are collecting your packet that morning. You can find more arrival information through the Black Hills Runners Club and your race emails.
Dress for the Thanksgiving morning forecast with comfortable shoes, adjustable layers, and something warm for after the finish. A dry pair of shoes in the car can make the trip back more comfortable. If the kids are joining you, tuck in their gloves and an extra layer, too.
Pets are not permitted, except service animals. For accessibility or participation questions, contact the race team ahead of time so they can help you prepare for the course.
Plan a Thanksgiving stay in Rapid City
Make the Turkey Trot part of a longer Thanksgiving visit. Arrive Wednesday for packet pickup, enjoy the race Thursday, and give yourself a few days to spend with family around Rapid City. If a homemade holiday meal is part of the plan, choose lodging with the kitchen facilities you need; for dining out, reserve early and check holiday hours.
We would love to welcome you to Canyon Lake Resort for the holiday. Our rooms, cabins, and lodges give couples, families, and groups options for a stay beside the lake. Browse our Black Hills Vacation Planner for more ways to enjoy your visit, then settle in and make Thanksgiving your own.
