Preserve. Promote. Protect.
Since 2012, Rocks and Roots Trail Runners Association has been dedicated to providing access to trails, cooperating with all trail users, and educating for sustainable trail usage. Of course, we also run on the trails!
Check out our upcoming events, sign up to volunteer, and donate to help expand trail running in Central Ohio!
Our Story - From a dream to reality...
The Rocks and Roots Trail Runners Association is a non-profit organization that seeks to preserve, protect, and promote trail access and diverse trail opportunities on Ohio’s public and private lands by working in concert with land managers and land owners to improve trails and facilities; promote the education of environmentally sound trail construction techniques and cooperating with all user groups in recreational use of both private and public lands, and is formed exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the meaning of the United States Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3).
The Rocks and Roots Trail Runners Association meets every Thursday evening and most weekends. All ability levels are welcome! We provide brief education sessions covering topics ranging from trail awareness, safety, touch on gear and nutrition and trail etiquette.
The Trail
The plans for a trail of our own began in 2010. Several of the original members were running trail races all over the country, wishing we had a place to call home. Talks began in early 2011 with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) to develop the area which is now home to the Rocks and Roots Trail at Alum Creek. ODNR was searching for ways to attract new users, and our group fit the mold.
Trail planning and marking began in early 2012. After providing premlimary maps to ODNR, proper clearance was provided, and construction began in November of 2012. To this point, thousand of hours and countless individuals have poured blood, sweat, and even tears into building the 13+ mile trail.
Maintenance is ongoing, and with your help we will continue to develop and sustain the only trail built by runners, for runners in Central Ohio.
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Our Races
Rocks and Roots Winter Trail Series - January and February
Muddy Duck 10K, 20K & 50K Trail Race - April
Firefly Overnight Endurance Challenge & Sunrise/Sunset 10Ks - June
Hoot Half & 10K Trail Race - August
Autumn Squatch 10K, 20K & 50K Trail Race - November
Volunteer
As the only trail built by runners for runners in Central Ohio, our incredible volunteers are the backbone of our success! The work that we do would not be possible without the help of our dedicated trail runners and partnerships around the Greater Columbus Area.
Rocks and Roots races are fully staffed by volunteers to help with trail building and maintenance, race day registration, aid stations, road crossings, and more! Stay up to date with our Instagram and Facebook for event volunteer opportunities!
If you are interested in planning a Rocks and Roots volunteer day with your employer or organization, please email us at info@fleetfeetcolumbus.com
Donate
Help keep our trails beautiful!
Thank you for your financial support of RRTRA! With your donations we can continue our trail work in Central Ohio. And who knows, we may have some expansion plans up our sleeve...
Rocks and Roots Trail Runners Association is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All donations go toward supplies, equipment, and other necessarily items to maintain the only trails built by runners for runners in Central Ohio.
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