The Killer Dunes 2-Miler and Color Fun Run will take place at Jockey’s Ridge State Park on Friday, July 4, 2025 at 8 a.m. The Friends of Jockey’s Ridge, together with Outer Banks Sporting Events, invites locals and visitors alike to register for this exciting and uniquely challenging course that winds through the tallest living sand dune on the east coast.

In honor of the 50th Anniversary of Jockey’s Ridge State Park, a brand-new addition joins this year’s race lineup — the Color Fun Run. This one-mile, family-friendly course adds a festive splash of color and is designed for all ages and abilities.

“The idea was to try to add something special to the run for our 50th anniversary year,” said Colette Mainardi, executive director of Friends of Jockey’s Ridge. “We are trying to gather more support from families in the community and those who are visiting. This adds a nice option for everyone to participate. There’s a reason it’s called The Killer Dunes — it’s not an easy course!”

Participants can take on the two-mile Killer Dunes race competitively or enjoy the course as a scenic walk through the dunes, offering an inclusive challenge for all. Both events provide a dynamic way to celebrate the legacy and natural beauty of Jockey’s Ridge.

To register for the July 4 event, go to the Outer Banks Sporting Events website at obxse.com/killer-dunes. Active U.S. military and veterans receive 10% off. Packet pick-up will be available at the Visitor Center on July 3 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and again on race morning from 6 to 7 a.m. (firm time).

After the race, join fellow participants for awards, snacks and refreshments on the Visitor Center’s back deck. The Killer Dunes two-mile race will be professionally timed by Precision Racing with awards presented to top three males overall, top three females overall and top three in each age group.

This milestone 50th anniversary also serves as a powerful reminder of Jockey’s Ridge’s origins. In 1973, Carolista Baum bravely stepped in front of a bulldozer to halt planned development: a pivotal act of grassroots activism that sparked the formation of Jockey’s Ridge State Park in 1975.

“When it comes down to it, it’s a celebration of what Jockey’s Ridge stands for,” said Mainardi. “As we’ve gone through the planning, it really comes down to the strength and courage of Carolista Baum, who stopped the bulldozer from coming through. It’s a nice time to pause and reflect on that because the park is beautiful and truly worth preserving. That’s the big takeaway.”

Today, the park welcomes more than one million visitors annually, remaining a symbol of conservation and community pride. The Friends of Jockey’s Ridge continues this legacy by protecting and promoting the park’s natural beauty and public access.

“We invite everyone to support our mission,” added Mainardi. “Visit our website, where folks can give a one-time donation or become a member for just $25. Membership lets them stay in touch with us, we reach out quarterly and make sure they get word of upcoming events.”

Special thanks were expressed to sponsors supporting the 50th anniversary celebration and this year’s Killer Dunes Race, including: County of Dare, Town of Nags Head, the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau, The Don & Catharine Bryan Cultural Series, Southern Bank, PepsiCo, Dominion Power, Kitty Hawk Kites, North Carolina State Parks, Wheless & Wheless PLLC, Ocean Builders LLC, Moss Painting and more.

Come together on July 4th to celebrate 50 years of wonder, community and conservation at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, and take on the dunes in one of the most unique events on the Outer Banks.

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