PawPals 4 Life 5k

PawPals 4 Life 5k is an off-road challenge at the Rock Springs Run nature reserve near Sorrento, Florida, on October 24, 2026, with the 5K run and walk starting at noon. It is designed for people who want to share the effort with their dog, covering the 3.1 miles on natural terrain side by side. Organized by the Pawfields Enrichment Group in support of the ASPCA, every entry includes a shirt and a medal for you plus a bandana and a medal for your registered dog. Places are limited.

Natural surfaces and a midday start both argue for running this one on effort rather than on pace, since a trail 5K rarely compares to a road time and there is little point chasing a number. Build up with a few off-road runs beforehand so your ankles are used to uneven ground, and get your dog accustomed to running on a leash over the same kind of terrain.