SUPERIOR — Runners will hit the trail at Pattison State Park July 17 during the summer Rivet Run 5K run/walk.

For the first time since floodwaters damaged the park trails in 2018, the race will return to its original course. Participants will travel past Little Manitou Falls twice, and enjoy riverside views as they run.

“I am excited to run on the original trail; it is so beautiful as you approach the waterfall,” said Connie Meek of Hayward, who has been participating in the event for years.

The 75-year-old has even snagged a few of the top prizes — ore boat rivets spray painted gold, silver and bronze for the top three finishers in each category. The rivets are donated by Fraser Shipyard and picked up each year by Bear Moreland.

"I was intrigued when I first read about a trail run at Pattison where you could actually win a real ore boat rivet ... if you ran fast enough," said Marva Sahs.

After the first run, she was hooked. Sahs has participated in every Rivet Run since its inception.

"I think my best experience is to enjoy the trail along the river to the falls. A few years ago the flood really destroyed the trail and bridges, but it's all fixed and beautifully restored," Sahs said.

Every runner can look forward to taking home a door prize, as well, although the fastest will have first pick. This year’s goodies include gift certificates, race entries and shirts.

Event organizer Eve Graves said the race will utilize UltraSignup to track times. Another change this year is that there will be no on-site registration. Participants must register online by July 14. Grave encouraged runners to sign up by July 7 to get a $10 discount on the cost and ensure they receive a shirt.

While the race is open to all ages, the trails are not stroller-friendly. Dogs are not allowed; neither are headphones. It’s a true family race, Graves said, with competitors who range in age from 5 years old to runners in their 80s.

“It’s just kind of a nice, low key (race). We have people who finish in 17 minutes all the way up to an hour and 17,” Graves said. “No rush. We just don’t want you to sit down on a bench and take pictures for too long, right?”

Whether people enjoy natural vistas or aim to win a rivet, Meek said, this race is for everyone.

“What I really enjoy about the race is the scenery; running alongside the lake and up to a waterfall is pretty hard to beat,” Meek said.

Every penny raised goes to upkeep of the ski trails at Pattison Park.

“The biggest thing is you know, if you like the park, support the trails by coming out. And, you know, sign up early. Don’t be afraid. This is a great event for anybody to start with, because it’s not intimidating. It’s small; it’s a very nice group, and it’s just not intimidating,” Graves said.

Both Meek and Sahs have encouraged friends to run the race due to its low-key atmosphere and beauty.

"I've talked to fellow runners who've never been to Pattison, and they're amazed," Sahs said.

Participants come from all over Wisconsin for the event. Graves said there's a runner coming from Oklahoma, as well.

“A lot of people love this event,” Graves said.

Sponsors have lined up to support the race, as well. They include Superior Waffles, Lungplus USA, the Manitou Inn, Four Corners Store, Nummi Jewelers, Phoenix Fitness, Gordy’s Garden Center, Thirsty Pagan, Tortoise and Hare Footwear and Urban Silent Sports Retreat.

"So, sign up, get a great T-shirt, run to maybe win an original ore boat rivet, help the park financially, have fun and enjoy how beautiful Pattison Park is," Sahs said.

Online registration will be taken through July 14. The cost is $25 until July 7, when there will be a $10 price hike. Visit the 5K Trail Rivet Run/Walk Facebook page for more information.