2026 Wisconsin Trail Assail National Watermelon Run
A trail half marathon celebrating National Watermelon Day with shaded routes and post-race fruit.
Expected Race Date
~Aug 2026
Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.
Location
Hartford, WI
Quick facts
- Date
- around August 2026 (expected)
- Location
- Hartford, Wisconsin
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Wisconsin Trail Assail National Watermelon Run invites runners to celebrate summer’s sweetest day on a shaded trail course near Hartford. Started in 2014, this small but growing event now draws around 160 finishers from about 13 states, with a loyal 22% returning each year.
The course winds through a forested, nature-close setting, offering a scenic and shaded route perfect for escaping the heat. The atmosphere is family-friendly and low-key, with a festive finish where runners cool off with juicy watermelon slices. Whether racing for time or enjoying a leisurely run, this hidden gem leaves you smiling—and a little sticky.
Race-provided description
National Watermelon Day Run 🍉🏃♀️ Celebrate summer’s sweetest day with a refreshing run or walk at the National Watermelon Day Run! Whether you’re here to race, stroll, or just enjoy a slice of fun, this event is the perfect way to beat the heat and celebrate all things watermelon. Event Highlights: Distance Options: 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon—something for every level of runner or walker.Post-Race Watermelon: Cool off and refresh with juicy, ice-cold watermelon slices at the finish line.Scenic Course: Enjoy a beautiful, shaded trail that keeps you close to nature.Family-Friendly Fun: Bring the whole crew for a day of running, walking, and watermelon-filled memories. Whether you’re a competitive runner or just in it for the watermelon, this fun-filled event will leave you smiling, satisfied, and a little sticky. Join us for the National Watermelon Day Run—a sweet way to celebrate summer! 🍉🎉
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Forest
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Quality Score
Standout6310 years running
~136 finishers a year
growing or steady
22% returning runners
limited extras
runners from 13 states
winner 1:25:04
typical high 81°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
62°
Afternoon (High)
81°
Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration
0.0"
Precipitation
10 mph
Wind
68%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Wisconsin Trail Assail National Watermelon Run?
The 2026 Wisconsin Trail Assail National Watermelon Run hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around August 2026 (expected).
Where does the 2026 Wisconsin Trail Assail National Watermelon Run take place?
It takes place in Hartford, Wisconsin.
What distances does the 2026 Wisconsin Trail Assail National Watermelon Run offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 Wisconsin Trail Assail National Watermelon Run course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Wisconsin Trail Assail National Watermelon Run is a rolling hills, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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