Run for the Dry Forest
- Date Sat 17th October 2026
- Time 7:45AM HST
- Location Kailua Kona, Hawaii
- Price $43.40
- Races 2 races
- Distances 5km, 10km
Event summary
Get ready to lace up your running shoes for the exhilarating Run for the Dry Forest event, taking place on Saturday, October 17, 2026, in the stunning Kailua-Kona, Hawaii! This vibrant race supports the vital conservation and restoration of Hawaii's unique dry forests, specifically at the Puu Waawaa site, known for its rich biodiversity. Participants will have the chance to choose from various race distances, all while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that are home to endangered birds and rare plants.
Join fellow nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts in this cupless event, where every runner will receive a reusable HydraPak SpeedCup to help eliminate waste and protect the pristine environment. Remember, no dogs are allowed at the venue to safeguard the native wildlife. This is not just a race; it’s an opportunity to make a positive impact on Hawaii’s natural heritage while enjoying a day of fun, fitness, and community spirit in one of the most beautiful locations on Earth!
Join fellow nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts in this cupless event, where every runner will receive a reusable HydraPak SpeedCup to help eliminate waste and protect the pristine environment. Remember, no dogs are allowed at the venue to safeguard the native wildlife. This is not just a race; it’s an opportunity to make a positive impact on Hawaii’s natural heritage while enjoying a day of fun, fitness, and community spirit in one of the most beautiful locations on Earth!
Organiser's Description
Run for the Dry Forest supports conservation and restoration of dry forests in Hawaii. Puu Waawaa contains some of the few remaining patches of dry forest, and was once considered the most botanically rich forest in Hawaii. Puu Waawaa contains 8 endangered birds and at least 40 rare plants, of which 22 are listed as endangered or proposed for listing. Ongoing research is exploring how to mitigate current threats to the forest, which include wildfire, invasives, and introduced ungulates.
Please note:
- **DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED** at Pu'uwa'awa'a to protect the native wildlife. Please keep your pets at home.
- **THIS IS A CUPLESS EVENT**. Unnecessary waste and trash is something we are working to eliminate at events. As an organization dedicated to maintaining a clean race and doing our part to keep our trails beautiful and pristine, just like last year, we will be going cupless. This means we are eliminating the use of disposable cups at all our races
- Runners will instead receive a reusable HydraPak SpeedCup for use on and off the course, but please bring your cup from past years and help our environment.
Please note:
- **DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED** at Pu'uwa'awa'a to protect the native wildlife. Please keep your pets at home.
- **THIS IS A CUPLESS EVENT**. Unnecessary waste and trash is something we are working to eliminate at events. As an organization dedicated to maintaining a clean race and doing our part to keep our trails beautiful and pristine, just like last year, we will be going cupless. This means we are eliminating the use of disposable cups at all our races
- Runners will instead receive a reusable HydraPak SpeedCup for use on and off the course, but please bring your cup from past years and help our environment.
Races
-
5k
Incl. $3.40 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 17th October 2026 (8:00AM HST)
$43.40
OPENS 03 AUGThe 5 km course includes stretches of dirt, coarse rock, and paved roads. Suitable for most people, including families. Because of the rocky sections, sturdy running or walking shoes are recommended and baby strollers should have large wheels. There is 300 feet of elevation gain/loss along this loop route. Start at the Meeting House and circle the reservoir once before heading up the dirt road past the parking area to the main ranch road. Turn left and proceed down the paved road about 1.1 miles. You will be directed left again over a section of rocky road for about 1/4 mile to the old airstrip. Continue down the airstrip and turn left after the airplane hangar. The trail goes uphill, through an open gate and back to the Meeting House. -
10k
Incl. $3.40 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 17th October 2026 (7:45AM HST)
$43.40
OPENS 03 AUGThe 10 km loop course is a challenging trail running experience, featuring 1200 feet of elevation gain in the first half (3 miles), loose rocky footing and narrow winding trails. Start at the Meeting House and run one lap around the reservoir before heading up the steep and winding 4wd road. From the crest above Puu Waawaa (the half-way point) you may be able to see Hualalai, Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea and Kohala. Circle the cinder cone and enjoy the fast single track descent through an old corral and horse pasture, to the finish at the Meeting House. This event is for experienced trail runners only. Baby strollers are not allowed.
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Location
71-1645 Hawaiʻi Belt Rd, Kailua Kona, 96740, HI, United States
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Run for the Dry Forest
