Night Owl 5K - Coyote 10K - Nighthawk 15K Challenge

A sunrise trail run at Colt Creek State Park in Lakeland.

Event date: 2/7/2027 7:15 AM - 10:30 AM

Get ready for an unforgettable morning trail adventure at Colt Creek State Park! The AdventHealth Nighthawk Trail Run returns with a fresh new format for 2027, giving runners the chance to experience the beauty of Colt Creek’s trails in the cool morning hours.

Important Event Update — New Date & Morning Start

Due to a scheduling conflict at Colt Creek State Park, the 2027 AdventHealth Nighthawk Trail Run has been moved to Sunday, February 7, 2027.

Along with the date change, Nighthawk is getting a new look for 2027! Instead of our traditional sunset start, this year’s event will take place Sunday morning, giving runners the opportunity to experience the beautiful trails of Colt Creek State Park in the cool morning hours.

Choose your challenge: take on the Night Owl 5K, push farther with the Coyote 10K, or test your endurance with the ultimate 15K Nighthawk Challenge—where you complete both races back-to-back.

For 2027, we’ll once again race at beautiful Colt Creek State Park in Lakeland, FL, with its wide-open trails, natural Florida scenery, and plenty of room to run wild.

🎽 Every runner will receive a premium race T-shirt, and when you cross the finish line, you’ll earn a bold, wildlife-inspired finisher medal. Complete the Nighthawk Challenge and you’ll score an exclusive third medal—a true badge of honor for taking on both races.

📅 Sunday, February 7, 2027
🌅 Morning Trail Run
📍 Colt Creek State Park – Lakeland, FL

✨ Scenic trails, great swag, unique bling, and a fun morning of racing await. 🏃 Secure your spot today!

When:

Sunday February 7, 2027

Start Times:

10K - 7:15 AM

5K - 9:00 AM

Race Venue:

Colt Creek State Park, 16000 State Rte 471, Lakeland, FL 33809

NOTE: There is a $2-$4 admission fee to enter the park. You can purchase a one day pass in advance to help expedite your entry to the park. CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE A PARK PASS

Distances:

Coyote 10K Trail Run (6.2 miles); Night Owl 5K Trail Run (3.1 miles)

Nighthawk 15K Challenge:

Run both the Night Owl 5K and Coyote 10K and receive a super cool bonus medal! To be eligible for the bonus medal you must register for both events via the Nighthawk Challenge Bundle. Runners registering for the Nighthawk Challenge should be able to run a sub 1:30 minute 10K.

Course:

Loop courses on the trails of Colt Creek State Park. Headlamps are required for the 5K event.

Maps:

Night Owl 5K PDF FILE SATELLITE MAP

Coyote 10K PDF FILE SATELLITE MAP

Important Notice:

The 5K and 10K runs occur on existing unpaved trails at Colt Creek State Park. It is important for each entrant to recognize that trail running involves running and walking on wilderness trails and that participants may encounter soft sand, standing water, mud, rocks, roots, and wildlife. Participation in a trail run also carries an inherent risk of injury. Due to the nature of this event, strollers, baby joggers, and pets are prohibited on the courses.

Amenities:

Awesome commemorative premium cotton shirt, unique finisher medals, accurately measured and well-marked course, chip timing with awards three deep in five-year age groups for both events, great post-race food and drinks, and more.

Awards:

10K & 5K - Top three overall, top masters, and the top three in each division, male and female (10-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, etc.)

Volunteers:

Be part of all the excitement at one of Sommer Sport's events. Whether you have just a few hours to spare or the entire day, your help will make a difference. Grab a bunch of friends, family, or co-workers and create a team to staff one of the water stations located along the course. Positions are available to fit any schedule. Click here to volunteer!