Date & Time
8:00am EST - 11:30am EST
About This Event
Join the Haw River Assembly as we run to protect our river on Saturday, April 11, and celebrate Earth Month with us!
Walkers, runners, racers, and ramblers alike are all welcome! Registered "Competitors" will participate in a 6K (3.6 mile) race around the Saxapahaw Island Loop Trail next to the scenic Haw River. Would you rather wander for your fresh air and the views? You can also register as a "Rambler" for a 1.2-mile, single loop.
The Haw River Assembly is a 501(c)(3) non-profit citizens’ group founded in 1982 to restore and protect the Haw River and Jordan Lake and to build a watershed community that shares this vision. Our goals are to promote environmental education, conservation, and pollution prevention, to speak as a voice for the river in the public arena, and to put into peoples’ hands the tools and the knowledge they need to be effective guardians of the river. The scenic 110-mile Haw River is at the headwaters of the Cape Fear River Basin and includes the Jordan Lake reservoir, providing drinking water and recreation to NC. Haw River and Jordan Lake tributaries flow through Guilford, Rockingham, Caswell, Alamance, Orange, Chatham, Wake, and Durham counties. Almost one million people are part of this watershed–sedimentation, wastewater, and runoff impair its waters. We host events raising awareness around protecting our watershed through advocacy, providing volunteer opportunities, and sharing environmental education to all ages. Learn more on our website: https://hawriver.org/.
About This Event
Join the Haw River Assembly as we run to protect our river on Saturday, April 11, and celebrate Earth Month with us!
Walkers, runners, racers, and ramblers alike are all welcome! Registered "Competitors" will participate in a 6K (3.6 mile) race around the Saxapahaw Island Loop Trail next to the scenic Haw River. Would you rather wander for your fresh air and the views? You can also register as a "Rambler" for a 1.2-mile, single loop.
The Haw River Assembly is a 501(c)(3) non-profit citizens’ group founded in 1982 to restore and protect the Haw River and Jordan Lake and to build a watershed community that shares this vision. Our goals are to promote environmental education, conservation, and pollution prevention, to speak as a voice for the river in the public arena, and to put into peoples’ hands the tools and the knowledge they need to be effective guardians of the river. The scenic 110-mile Haw River is at the headwaters of the Cape Fear River Basin and includes the Jordan Lake reservoir, providing drinking water and recreation to NC. Haw River and Jordan Lake tributaries flow through Guilford, Rockingham, Caswell, Alamance, Orange, Chatham, Wake, and Durham counties. Almost one million people are part of this watershed–sedimentation, wastewater, and runoff impair its waters. We host events raising awareness around protecting our watershed through advocacy, providing volunteer opportunities, and sharing environmental education to all ages. Learn more on our website: https://hawriver.org/.
FAQ
What is the difference between a “Rambler” and “Runner”?
Ramblers complete one loop of the route at a walking pace. Runners receive a bib, are timed, and must complete two loops of the trail. Runners will start before the ramblers to ensure safety.
Do I get a t-shirt?
The first 70 runners and ramblers are guaranteed the 2026 shirt! All participants after the first 70 may select a shirt from a previous year, but preferred sizes are not guaranteed. We ask that you keep your original shirt size, but if you’d like to make a change, please visit the registration table after the race. In registering, you can also opt out of receving a shirt!
What is the schedule?
On Friday, April 10, we have will have an optional packet pick-up at Saxapahaw Island Park where participants can their bibs and t-shirts, and checkout the course. This will last from 6 pm-7:15 pm.
Saturday, April 11, is race day! Here is the agenda:
- 8:30 am: Registeration Opens at Saxapahaw Island Park
- 9 am: Race starts!
- 10:30 am: Awards & Post-Race Fun!
Is this timed?
Yes. This event is timed by ClockWork Race Timing out of Raleigh.
What are the age divisions for those competing as a runner?
- Female 17 & under
- Female 18-49
- Female 50 & Up
- Male 17 & under
- Male 18-49
- Male 50 & Up
What awards will be handed out?
In each of the six divisions, we will award 3rd, 2nd, and 1st place medals. An overall winner will also be announced and will not be eligible for the division medals.
Are dogs allowed?
No. Dogs are not allowed on the trail during the race.
Are same-day registrations allowed?
No. We cannot accept same-day registrations.
Is this refundable?
No. This event is non-refundable.
What is the course like?
This is a trail race with minimal elevation change.The course will be two loops on the Saxapahaw Island Park. It has the feel of an old-school cross country race. Here is a map: https://www.strava.com/routes/
Are strollers allowed?
Yes, strollers are allowed on the trail.
Can I transfer my registration before the race?
Yes. Transfers are allowed only within the same participant category (e.g., a “Rambler” can transfer only to another “Rambler”). Transfers must be done by Friday, April 3.
Where do I park?
Please know that parking is limited. On race day, there will not be parking on the Island Park, but parking will be available at Saxapahaw United Methodist Church. You can also park just across the bridge in the town of Saxapahaw and walk to the park. Carpooling is highly encouraged.
Non-Race Questions
What does this event support?
Proceeds support the Haw River Assembly, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting the Haw River watershed through clean-water advocacy, environmental education for youth, and community empowerment. All participants will recieve a one-year membership for signing up!
Where can I eat?
We recommend The Eddy Pub and Saxapahaw General Store for a tasty post-race meal. We will also have granola bars and bananas available at registeration.
Who can I contact for more information?
Please contact the Haw River Assembly's Events & Volunteer Program Manager by emailing events@hawriver.org.
Date & Time
8:00am EST - 11:30am EST