Mountain Lakes Turkey Trot Returns Thanksgiving Morning to Support YMCA Scholarships

This is a paid post contributed by a Patch Community Partner. The views expressed in this post are the author's own, and the information presented has not been verified by Patch.

MOUNTAIN LAKES, NJ - Start Thanksgiving with a purpose! Lakeland Hills Family YMCA invites the community to participate in the 2026 Mountain Lakes Turkey Trot on Thursday, November 26, at 9:00 AM, beginning and ending at Wildwood Elementary School in Mountain Lakes.

Subscribe

Now in its third year hosted by Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, this Thanksgiving tradition brings together runners, walkers, and families for a morning of fitness, fun, and giving back. Proceeds benefit the YMCA Scholarship Fund, helping reduce financial barriers so more individuals and families can access YMCA programs, services and opportunities.

"Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate gratitude, connection and giving back," said Alex Martinez, CEO. "The Turkey Trot brings our community together for a great cause. Every step helps create opportunities for more people to experience all that the Y has to offer."

The Turkey Trot is a USATF-sanctioned and certified 5K and a Paul Miller Grand Prix event. Competitive runners, casual joggers, walkers, and families with strollers are all welcome. Children ages 2 and younger participate for free.

Participants can enjoy a festive race-day atmosphere featuring a DJ, coffee, hot chocolate, and snacks. The event takes place rain or shine.

Race Details

• Date: Thursday, November 26, 2026
• Time: 9:00 AM start; check-in opens at 7:30 AM
• Location: Wildwood Elementary School, 51 Glen Road, Mountain Lakes, NJ
• Registration: $35 through November 18; $40 beginning November 19, including race day
• T-shirts: Register by November 9 for a guaranteed event shirt
• Packet Pickup: November 24–25, 8:00 AM–8:00 PM, at Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, 100 Fanny Road, Mountain Lakes

Register today and join the flock!

About Lakeland Hills Family YMCA

Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening the foundations of our community by supporting youth, improving health and well-being, and fostering connection. From early learning and summer camp to aquatics, fitness, and enrichment programs, we serve people of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring everyone has access to opportunities that build confidence, relationships, and lifelong well-being.

This post is an advertorial piece contributed by a Patch Community Partner, a local brand partner. To learn more, click here.