River Bluff Trails mini Fest

• Kick off the day with a scenic run through River Bluff Trails Park. The 5K course is a single winding lap through the bluffs, while the 10K doubles the challenge with two laps. 

• What to bring: Comfortable running shoes, suitable for the trails. Water or hydration pack. Optional: snacks, phone or camera to capture the beautiful scenery.

• Who's invited: Everyone! All ages and abilities welcome—whether this is your first time on the trail or your 100th lap.

  • Sign up here: River Bluff Trails mini Fest on Bikereg.com

  • Please plan to arrive early. Give yourself plenty of time to park, pick up your bib/number, and get settled. Races will start/finish at the Huntoon Trailhead at 4101 Huntoon Road, St Joseph, MO. https://share.google/9HoNzZwQMCDQilcV6

• Test your skills on the 5K trail loop, with riders completing 1, 2, or 3 laps depending on race category. Expect fast singletrack, fall colors, and plenty of cheering from the crowd.

• What to bring: Helmet (required – safety first!), Water (hydration is key), Snacks (because post-ride munchies are real 😋).  Optional: gloves, spare tube, positive trail vibes. Please check your bike for mechanical issues before the race. Horizon Cycling and Tubes Bike Shop will be on-site to assist with last-minute adjustments. 

• Who’s invited: everyone! We will have several options for riders of all styles, speeds, and agility!

  • Sign up here: River Bluff Trails mini Fest on Bikereg.com

  • Please plan to arrive early. Give yourself plenty of time to park, pick up your bib/number, and get settled. Races will start/finish at the Huntoon Trailhead at 4101 Huntoon Road, St Joseph, MO. https://share.google/9HoNzZwQMCDQilcV

🐾✨ Trail Tails & Wagging Whiskers! ✨🐾 We're teaming up with our friends at Friends of the Animal Shelter for a special Pet Preview in the Park! 🐶🐱

Come meet some adorable, adoptable furry friends while enjoying the beauty of River Bluff Trails Park. It’s the perfect mix of fresh air, wagging tails, and happy trails. Who knows—you might even meet your new hiking buddy, running partner, or snuggle sidekick. 🐾💚

11:00 AM - 1:00 PM at the Huntoon Trailhead (4101 Huntoon Road, Saint Joseph, MO)

More details here: mini Tails + Trails: FOTAS Adoption Event

Think of it as the Olympics of ridiculous fun. Contestants line up with a (very retired) Huffy bike — you know, the kind that’s seen better days — and compete to see who can throw it the farthest. Yep, throw it. No pedaling, no gears, just pure muscle, momentum, and questionable technique.

Rules are simple.

1. No launching assistance — it’s all you, your strength, and gravity.

2. Furthest toss wins eternal glory (and probably some sore muscles).

Spectators are highly encouraged — because nothing says “community spirit” like cheering on your friends as they yeet a bicycle into the air. 🚲💨

Follow along on Facebook: River Bluff Trails mini Fest - Choose Your Adventure 

• 🚴 Group MTB Rides hosted by the Saint Joseph Trail Alliance—no racing, just a good time on the trails together.

  • What to bring: Helmet (required – safety first!), Water (hydration is key), Snacks (because post-ride munchies are real 😋).  Optional: gloves, spare tube, positive trail vibes.

  • Who’s invited: everyone! We will have several options for riders of all styles, speeds, and agility! 

• 🌿 Guided Nature Hike with Ann Marie Chappel—explore the fall foliage, learn about local plants, and enjoy the bluff views.

  • What to bring: sturdy footwear, water, binoculars (optional), and the iNaturalist app if you’d like to help ID plants and wildlife.

  • Who’s invited: everyone! This is a relaxed, family-friendly hike lasting about an hour.

• 🏃 Group Trail Runs hosted by the Pony Express Trail Runners—whether you’re training or just out for fun, join this social run on the bluffs.

  • What to bring: Comfortable running shoes suitable for trails.  Water or a hydration pack. Optional: snacks, phone, or camera to capture the scenery

  • Who's invited: Everyone! All ages and abilities are welcome. Bring your friends, family, or furry running buddy if they’re trail-friendly.

• Cap off the day with our traditional community celebration at the Chimneys. 

• Expect food, laughter, and a few surprises as we wind down together.

• 🍔 Tasty Food & Refreshments

• 🎯 Trailhead Games

• 🧒 Kids’ Adventures

• 🤝 Community Fun & Trail Spirit

• 🎉 Plus plenty of surprises along the way!