Missoula is a mecca for running and running community. Whether you’re interested in taking your first steps in the sport, or you’ve worn through countless shoes. Whether you’re looking for trail adventures or miles of road running. And whether you’re interested in running groups, training classes, races or individual pursuits – look no further than our mountain town.
At the heart of Missoula’s running community is Run Wild Missoula, a nonprofit organization with roots dating back to 1986. Today, they are Missoula’s premier running organization, hosting events such as the Missoula Marathon and facilitating year-round running groups. And thanks to their emphasis on inclusive running, they are excited for anyone (including you!) to experience running in Missoula.
Scroll on to learn more about running groups, running events, volunteer opportunities and meet Trisha Drobeck, the Executive Director of Run Wild Missoula:
Meet Trisha Drobeck, Executive Director of Run Wild
Trisha Drobeck is the Executive Director of Run Wild Missoula and is passionate about welcoming everyone into the Missoula running community. She is a University of Montana alumna who majored in Journalism. After graduating, she was invited to train and run her first marathon, and a love for the sport was born.
Trisha was kind enough to answer some questions as to why and who should join Missoula’s running community, and the many benefits of becoming a part of the pack:
Question: Run Wild currently has more than 2,500 members. What do you think drives so many people to be a part of your organization?
Trisha: The majority of our membership is here for the connection. We have so many activities that move beyond an event, because we know a lot of people aren't interested in trail or road races. That's why we have weekly runs, we have monthly runs, we have social events, we have a book club, we have movie nights. These kind of social events intertwined with movement really engage people.
Q: Do you need to be a “runner” or have a lot of experience to join or sign up for training classes, running clubs, or events?
Trisha: I think it does intimidate people from joining a running club because they say, I'm not a runner. Oh, I'm not fast. But that's not the case at all. Most of the people aren't fast. It's rarer to be fast than it is to be not fast. We promote a run walk method. It's a really easy way and a great way to get your heart rate up, but not like blow yourself out and completely collapse.
Q: What are some of the non-tangible things you get by joining the Run Wild community?
Trisha: You get all the aspects. You’re getting physical activity, you’re getting your social charge if you’re interested in that, and you’re meeting people. I was on a run once where there was a gal who was just about to graduate, and she was running with the director of the VA hospital – and they made a job connection. I mean, where else are you going to meet all of these people who have ties to the community?
Q: What are some volunteer opportunities students could get involved with?
Trisha: We have a lot of students who volunteer at our events. The shifts are usually 2 hours or less, and we have course monitors, aid station helpers, and some help us set up and tear down. There are a myriad of things to do. It’s a great way to volunteer and get out into the community and off campus, and interact with runners of all ages, shapes, sizes, colors and abilities.
Run Wild Running Groups
Run Wild Missoula facilitates weekly and monthly running and walking groups that are free to Run Wild members*. Many of these classes are led by professional runners and coaches, and all experience levels are welcome to attend.
Check out a few from the selection, or click here for all listed Run Wild running clubs:
Tuesday Track
Tuesday Track meets throughout the year, where Coach Courtney Babcock, former Canadian Olympian and Record Holder, leads speed workouts .
Wednesday Wild Miles
Discover Missoula trails with this Wednesday running group that tackles approximately 4-6 trail miles with less than 1,000 feet of elevation each week. Wednesday Wild Miles joins forces with the Last Wednesday Beer Run at the end of each month.
Saturday Breakfast Run
The Saturday Breakfast Run offers longer routes for walkers, joggers and runners alike, ending with breakfast treats and a great way to kick off the weekend.
*Run Wild Membership costs $27 a year and includes access to running groups, trainings classes, and discounts on races and local businesses. Learn more about Run Wild Membership.
Run Wild Training Classes
Training classes are open to all Run Wild Members* and are a great way to stay motivated while achieving your fitness goals. Registration is required for all training classes, and each program fills up fast! All classes are led by running professionals and coaches.
Check out the Training Classes, or click here for more information and registration links.
Missoula Marathon and Half Marathon Training Classes
Spanning early March to late June, just in time for the July event, thousands of runners have upped their game through this iconic training class. All experience levels are encouraged to join. Registration opens early January.
Spring Trail Running Sessions
Discover Missoula’s local trails with this training program spanning early April to late May. All experience levels are welcome, and both running and hiking are encouraged. Registration opens around mid-March.
Beginner Running
Looking to get into the sport? Look no further than the 7-week Beginner Running program, which gradually builds up to the Skeleton Skedaddle 5K in late October. Registration opens in mid-August.
*Run Wild Membership costs $27 a year and includes access to running groups, trainings classes, and discounts on races and local businesses. Learn more about Run Wild Membership.
Run Wild Races
Run Wild organizes more than a dozen running events a year, ranging from themed 5Ks to high elevation 50Ks, and including virtual options, fundraising runs and interactive events like Art on the Run.
Check out a few signature events, or click here for a list of all Run Wild Missoula races:
Missoula Marathon and Half-Marathon
The “Last Best Race” – The Missoula Marathon is a signature event and brings a long list of activities and races in late June. All races end in downtown Missoula after touring the scenic countryside, where the after-party is the place to be. Read More: Missoula Marathon Website.
Pengelly Double Dip
For the elevation junkies out there, this early June half-marathon traverses the steep slopes of Mount Sentinel and University Mountain behind campus for a steep 3,400 feet of elevation gain.
Turkey Day Runs
Come burn off some calories at this popular 8K, 5K & free 3K on Thanksgiving Day that starts and ends near the Campus Recreation Center.
Volunteer Opportunities
Run Wild Missoula offers a ton of volunteer opportunities, whether you’re looking to fill class requirements or meet new people. Opportunities include course monitors, aid station crews and general support. Volunteer shifts are typically two hours or less.
