Running from Yeti Turns Kessler Mountain Into a February Party
Winter trail running hits different when a giant Yeti is part of the experience. Freddie has become the unofficial mascot of this race, and the whole thing feels more like a celebration than a typical Saturday morning run.
THE DEETS
📅 Saturday, February 7, 2026 | 7:00 AM–11:30 AM
📍 Kessler Mountain Regional Park, 2600 Wc 200, Fayetteville, AR 72701
🏃 Categories: 5K, 10K, Half-Marathon
🎟️ Packet Pickup: February 6th, 3:00–6:00 PM at Rush Running (2600 N College Ave, Fayetteville)
🔗 Event Site
The Race Day Breakdown
Arrival time is 7:00 AM sharp and strictly enforced. If you’re coming from out of town and missed Friday’s packet pickup, you can grab yours on-site between 7:00–7:50 AM. Freddie the Yeti kicks things off at 7:40 AM, then races start in waves: half-marathon at 7:50 AM, 10K at 8:00 AM, and 5K at 8:05 AM.
Awards go out at 9:30 AM for 5K and 10K finishers, with half-marathon awards at 10:45 AM.
What You Get
Every runner walks away with a comfy hoodie and gets to choose from bonus swag options. Post-race food and treats are included, and organizers ask everyone to wear white to match Freddie.
In Nepalese folklore, the Yeti is an abominable snowman who lives in the Himalayas and was worshipped by indigenous communities as a Glacier Being. In NWA, Freddie is a friendly, oversized character who shows up for high-fives, photos, and some playful trail chasing. You can run, walk, jog, or even cartwheel your way through the course while Yeti music keeps the energy going all morning.
What to Know Before You Go
Kessler Mountain’s trails mix technical sections with runnable stretches. February temps are cold but manageable, so bring layers you can shed as you warm up. Show up on time because that 7:00 AM entry cutoff is strict.
Registration is open now through the Running from Yeti website. Grab your spot, break out your white gear, and get ready for one of the most fun race days NWA has to offer.
