Runner & Race Day Info
Location
7 Mile Creek is conveniently located off Hwy 169 between Mankato and St. Peter.
47454 US-169, St Peter, MN 56082
Race Day Check-In
When you arrive at the park on race day, please be sure to check in! That way we know who made it to the start line—and that nobody’s lost in the woods! You MUST check in, even if you already picked up your packet.
Packet Pickup
We're hosting a Packet Pickup Party! On Saturday, July 25th, come to the store at 8:15 AM for a group run. Afterward, stick around to enjoy coffee and snacks and pick up your packet! You may have someone pick up your packet for you.
Saturday, July 25th
8:15 AM - 10:00 AM
River Valley Running
605 N. Riverfront Drive
Mankato, MN 56001
Bibs
This year's race will be chip-timed! Please wear your bib on the front side of your body, pinned to your outermost layer of clothing.
Parking
Carpooling is HIGHLY recommended. There will be signs with balloons directing you to parking. Parking will be on the East side of the park, on the side closest to the Minnesota River. If you're coming from St. Peter, you will take a left. If you're coming from Mankato, you'll take a right. Please note it's about a half mile from this parking lot to the start line, so be sure you give yourself enough time to walk over and check in.
Map to parking: https://maps.app.goo.gl/K4US5ugybrLeCSh68
*This is subject to change based on flooding and water levels. We will send an email closer to race day if there are any updates.*
The park is NOT reserved
The park is still open to the public! There will be other people, and dogs and horses may also be present on the trails. Please use caution and common sense - horses get the right of way.
No refunds, transfers, or switches
Once you sign up, your spot is yours—no take-backs, no swaps, no passing your entry to a friend. Can’t make it? Race gets canceled? We can’t refund your fee. So double-check you’re good with that before you hit register. Please see the 'No Refund Policy' tab on the left for more information.
Swag
This year, your registration comes with a shirt! The order deadline is Friday, July 10th. Shirts come in Men’s, Women’s, and youth sizes. You won’t be able to swap shirts on race day, so double-check your size before you order.
Cutoff Times
The cutoff for all races is 11:30 AM. Not sure you’ll make it across the finish line in 3.5 hours? No problem! Send us an email at marketing@rivervalleyrunning.com and we’ll work with you to figure out an early start. Early start is only available for runners who are concerned about the cutoff time. To finish the 7k course your average pace must be
Weather – 7MC is a hot one!
Early August in Minnesota is often hot and humid. You should train for and plan for a hot day. Adjusting your pacing and race plan accordingly, along with proper hydration, nutrition, and electrolyte balance is key.
Cupless Race
7MC is cupless. Bring your favorite bottle, cup, or vest. Stay hydrated. Keep the trails happy. Spectators should also bring a reusable cup or bottle. We will have some Altraspire C2 cups available for cash purchase on race day.
Music & Headphones
Playing music out loud from your phone or other speakers is not allowed. Headphones? Totally fine. Just keep the volume low, or pop one out so you can hear what’s going on around you. Being able to chat with other runners, volunteers, and trail folks keeps everyone safe.
Can my dog run with me?
No running the race with your dog, sorry! But leashed, supervised pups are totally welcome to cheer you on with your crew at the start and finish.
Can you hear me now? Probably not
Heads up: there’s no cell coverage in most of the park, including the start and finish. If you need a signal, your best bet is to head for the highway.
New to trail running?
Check out the UMTR page about Trail Running etiquette!
TLDR:
- Carry out trash; don’t litter.
- Stay on the trail—even through mud.
- Pass politely; announce yourself.
- Uphill runners have the right of way.
- Yield to horses; bikes yield to you.
*All details are subject to change. Any major changes will be communicated via email. Please contact marketing@rivervalleyrunning.com with any questions.*