Event Spotlight

The trail is more than just a route through the countryside—it is a journey through places filled with memories, determination, and the spirit of Amaris. Every step along this path reflects moments of hard work, adventure, and joy, creating an experience that is both challenging and meaningful for every participant.

Runners and walkers will begin by making their way through rows of beautiful blueberry bushes, where Amaris once spent time picking berries. This peaceful section of the course offers a scenic and refreshing start, surrounded by nature and reminders of simple, meaningful moments. It is a chance to settle into your pace while taking in the beauty of the landscape.
From there, the trail leads over the ditch that Amaris crossed countless times on the way to the upper patches. This part of the route symbolizes persistence and everyday determination—the willingness to keep moving forward no matter how many times the journey must be made. Participants will feel that same sense of purpose as they continue onward.

Next comes one of the most talked-about and memorable parts of the course: the climb known as Bubble Mountain. This challenging up-and-down section will test your endurance and strength, pushing you to dig deep and keep going. It may be the toughest part of the trail, but it is also where participants often discover their resilience and determination.
After conquering Bubble Mountain, the course winds through the big field where Amaris once practiced driving a standard. This wide-open stretch offers room to breathe, refocus, and appreciate the connection between the course and the life it celebrates. The open field serves as a reminder of learning new skills, embracing challenges, and gaining confidence.
Finally, participants will head down the hill that carries them back toward the start and finish line. The downhill stretch brings a sense of momentum and accomplishment as you prepare to complete another lap.

This is a three-time-around trail course designed to challenge participants physically while inspiring them emotionally. Whether you choose to run or walk, you will be surrounded by encouragement every step of the way. Volunteers, supporters, and fellow participants will be there to cheer you on, celebrate your progress, and help carry you through the toughest moments.

More than a race, this course is an experience of perseverance, community, and remembrance. It will push you, motivate you, and remind you that every hill can be climbed when you keep moving forward.

This is the BEST way to get to the trail run!
GPS To Brown Branch, Mo. At Jct. 76 highway and W. Take 'W' then go 6/10 of a mile.
Turn right on Caney Creek road.
Go 5.5 miles until the pavement ends at Skyline Drive. Take a left onto Skyline Dr. Go 1/10 of a mile. Turn right at the Glade Top big wooden sign. Go 3 miles to Wolf Junction(trail headquarters). On race day, we will park you at Willie Lee campground which will be on your right just before you get to Wolf Jct.

Run & Remember is more than a 5K. Each year Lost & Found Grief Center hosts our memorial event and 5K to bring our community together to honor the memory of loved ones who have died. This is an opportunity for you to invite others to remember your loved one with you. Being alongside others with shared experience helps create a sense of togetherness, showing that no one is grieving alone.

5K RUN/WALK & 1 MILE MEMORY WALK: Run & Remember is an all ages, all abilities event. You can run or walk the 5K through downtown Springfield or follow the shaded path back to the park on the 1 Mile Memory Walk that ends at the Memory Garden. Runners, walkers, strollers, wagons, and wheelchairs are all welcome.

MEMORY GARDEN: There is a special area at the park we call the Memory Garden. You can purchase a memorial sign, which will include the name and a photo of your loved one. These are displayed in the Memory Garden as a place for reflection and remembrance during the event. You may take your sign with you at the end of the event or pick it up from the Lost & Found office the following week.

REMEMBRANCE PROGRAM & RACE AWARDS: Race awards will begin at roughly 7:30 after most runners finish the race. Immediately following awards, we will have a short memorial program. The Lost & Found Programs team puts together a meaningful presentation that will allow you to reflect on your grief journey and remember the life of your loved one.