2025 WAPOA’s Grandpa's Run for the Walleye

The 29th Annual Run for the Walleye will be on Saturday July 4, 2026!

Registration is now open for the 29th Annual Grandpa’s Run for the Walleye. Grandpa’s Run for the Walleye has become one of the signature events of the Crosslake Fourth of July Celebration and will be held on the morning of Saturday, July 4th, the same day as the fireworks over Cross Lake.

The event, based at the Crosslake Community Center, begins with the 10K at 8:15 AM, followed by the 5K Run/Walk at 8:30 AM, and concludes with the Kids Sunfish Dash at 9:45 AM.

Both the 5K and 10K are USATF certified and professionally chip timed. Strollers and leashed dogs are welcome on the course, and water stops are available along all routes.

Registration Information

Early registration for the 5K and 10K is $30 through June 23rd; $35 from June 24th through race day. Participants who register by June 23rd are guaranteed their choice of a long or short-sleeved performance shirt. The Kids Sunfish Dash (ages 10 and under) is $10 and includes a T-shirt and swag bag.

Supporting the Whitefish Chain

Grandpa’s Run for the Walleye is sponsored by WAPOA, and proceeds from the race directly support fish habitat projects and conservation efforts throughout the Chain. WAPOA monitors water quality across more than 40 lakes, supports aquatic invasive species prevention and response, and works to preserve the shoreline health that makes the Whitefish Chain one of Minnesota’s premier recreational lake systems.