Carpe Diem – Carpe Noctem Trail Race

Run trails by daylight, race again under the stars. On Saturday, April 11, 2026, Carpe Diem – Carpe Noctem returns to Proud Lake State Recreation Area in Commerce Township, Michigan. This unique trail race offers a chance to experience the same course in two very different ways: By sunlight in the morning and by headlamp at night.

Choose from a Half Marathon or 10K in the morning, evening, or both. Morning races take place fully in daylight, while evening races start just before sunset and many finish after dark—making this one of Michigan’s most exciting night races. Runners who take on the Double will earn two gorgeous medals that magnetically connect into one epic keepsake.

The trails at Proud Lake are wide, runnable, and beginner-friendly, with a few sections of roots. If it rains, expect classic Michigan Spring mud to keep things interesting. Courses are extremely well-marked with turn signs at every intersection and confidence markers every tenth of a mile, so you can focus on your run instead of your navigation.

Beyond the races themselves, Carpe Diem – Carpe Noctem is built around community. Between the morning and evening events, athletes are invited to stick around for a full-day trail hangout, complete with hot food, a community potluck, lawn games, and plenty of time to relax with fellow runners.

 
Why Run Carpe Diem – Carpe Noctem?

• Unique Format: Experience trails in both daylight and nighttime conditions on the same day.
• Flexible Distances: Morning or evening Half Marathon and 10K options—or take on the Double for the ultimate challenge.  Half + Half or Half + 10K
• Memorable Medals: Earn a gorgeous Diem or Noctem medal—or run both and receive a two-piece, magnetic medal set.
• Premium Swag: Every participant gets a soft, comfortable spring race hoodie with regular registration.  Or save some cash - skip the swag and just race with Economy Registration.
• Community Vibe: Enjoy hot food, a potluck, and games with your trail family between races.
• Well-Marked Trails: Wide, runnable courses with turn signs and confidence markers every 0.1 mile.
• Night Running Adventure: Evening races begin at 7:00 pm—bring a headlamp or flashlight and experience the thrill of running through the woods after dark.
   

Event Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026
Location: Proud Lake State Recreation Area, Commerce Township, MI

Seize the day. Chase the night. Or do both.