Pumpkin Spice everything, cozy sweaters, and Autumn running are some of the best things in life. Lucky for us the 2026 Fall Root Races are almost here. Central Oregon Running Klub and Run Bend have partnered to combine some new races (the Fall Foot Half and the Fleet Foot 5k) with some cherished (Bigfoot 10k and Little Foot Kids Run) so there’s fun for all to enjoy on October 4th, 2026.
The Fall Foot Half, now in its second year, will take place first at 8:00AM. This race is fast and scenic, with about 500 feet of elevation loss in the first half before flattening out for the second half of the course. It starts at the Cascade Lakes Welcome Center, connects to the Deschutes River Trail, and finishes up at Riverbend Park.
The Bigfoot 10k, (the oldest footrace in Bend!) takes off at 9:00AM. This race is a fast downhill course which also starts at the Cascade Lakes Welcome Center and heads to the Deschutes River Trail. Like the Fall Foot Half, runners will finish this race at Riverbend Park.
This one has been known to be a good PR race, with a half pavement and half trail course and 500 feet of elevation loss. This race is also a fundraiser for the Bend-La Pine School Cross Country teams.
The Fleet Foot 5k will start at 9:30AM, and it’s a wonderful way to check out the Old Mill and River Parks. This event is a great one for both runners and walkers, and it will both start and finish at Riverbend Park.
The Little Foot Kid’s Run takes place at 10:30AM. Runners 10 years or younger can compete in this fun event for free, and it’s a half mile loop at Riverbend Park. Register for this one from 10:00AM to 10:30AM on race day.
Please note that since the half marathon and 10k are point-to-point races that don’t start and end at the same location, you’ll want to plan accordingly. Parking will be available at Riverbend Park but NOT at the Welcome Center, though drop off will be permitted. If you can’t get a ride for the race, email bendmarathoninfo@gmail.com to schedule a shuttle ride.
2026 Fall Foot Races $15-$75
Details
- When: Sunday, October 4th, 2026
- Where: Please park at Riverbend Park, Bend. Half and 10k will start at the Cascade Lakes Welcome Station but parking will NOT be permitted here.
- Packet Pick-Up: Saturday Oct 3rd from 2:00PM to 5:00PM at FootZone in Bend or on race day at the start line.