Summer Night Trail Run

The Summer Night Trail Run at Eagle Creek Park is a nighttime trail half-marathon that feels more like a moonlit party than a race. Now in its 13th year, the event draws a loyal but modest crowd—recent fields hover around 120 finishers, with about 13% of runners coming back year after year. The course winds through the wooded trails of Eagle Creek Park, Indianapolis’s largest park, under the cover of darkness (and under a disco ball at the start/finish).

The atmosphere is low-key and community-driven, with a finish line reward that steals the show: Krispy Kreme donuts for every finisher. With an optional T-shirt and a focus on fun over speed, this race is a perfect beginner-friendly introduction to trail running or a relaxed night out for seasoned runners. The course itself is entirely on trail, with no elevation data available—likely flat to rolling terrain typical of the park’s paths. While it’s not a PR course, the small field and laid-back vibe make it a hidden gem for those seeking a unique, after-dark running experience.