River Rat Run
The River Rat Run honors a fallen soldier with scenic lakefront trails and proceeds benefiting local nonprofits.
Race Date
Apr 24, 2027
Location
Yankton, SD
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, April 24, 2027
- Location
- Yankton, South Dakota
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Mixed
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The River Rat Run, established in 2009 to honor SFC Rich Schild, winds through the picturesque Lewis and Clark Lake Recreation Area in Yankton, South Dakota. Runners navigate chip-timed courses along newly paved trails that hug the shores of Lewis and Clark Lake and Lake Yankton, offering panoramic water views and opportunities to observe local wildlife, including bald eagles in winter.
The event features a half marathon, 10K, and 5K, with the half marathon offering finisher medals. The course is noted for its scenic beauty, with wooded landscapes and occasional grass connectors. With a median field size of around 100 finishers and growing, the race draws participants from about 11 states, with a repeat-runner loyalty of approximately 16%. All proceeds from the event are donated to local nonprofit organizations, continuing SFC Schild's legacy of community devotion.
Race-provided description
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Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, April 24, 2027
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
Gavin's Point Road Picnic Shelter/Gavin's Point Beach Parking Area, Yankton, SD, 57078
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
mixed
Scenery
Lake River, Forest
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
Standout7414 years running
~100 finishers a year
growing or steady
16% returning runners
6 timing sources · 8 photos
runners from 11 states
winner 1:17:15
typical high 63°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
41°
Afternoon (High)
62°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.1"
Precipitation
17 mph
Wind
59%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the River Rat Run?
The River Rat Run is held on Saturday, April 24, 2027.
Where does the River Rat Run take place?
It takes place in Yankton, South Dakota.
What distances does the River Rat Run offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the River Rat Run course flat and good for a PR?
The River Rat Run is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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