New trails demand new challenges, and Quivering Quads II is up to the task. The 13.1k (8-mile) trail race returns for a second year with an all-new course that uses Cuivre River State Park’s Old Schoolhouse Trail, which opened not long ago in October 2013.

The trail, which takes its name from the foundation of an early 1900’s one-room schoolhouse that can be seen en route, provides a spectacular view of Lake Lincoln and a mostly flat, smooth, runnable course.

“It’s beautiful in fall, with the colors changing and the breeze coming off the lake,” said Jules Vogel, race productions logistics manager for Fleet Feet St. Louis. “This is a great course for people who are more experienced trail runners, because they can really open up and keep speed and wind around the turns. For beginners, it’s great because they will enjoy the scenery and camaraderie and don’t have to worry about hills. They can experience trail running for the first time and fall in love with it.”

Scheduled for October 29, the race is limited to 550 entries. About 425 people signed up for the inaugural event last year, which used portions of the loop used for the original Quivering Quads half-marathon course.

Vogel said Fleet Feet wanted to showcase a new part of the park, which also features a new pavilion, a boat dock and a beach area that are ideal for spectating. “About 75 percent of the trail encircles the lake, right on the edge of the woods, and you can see runners on the other side, so it’s a really intimate atmosphere for a race,” she said.

The race includes full-zip hoodies and finisher medals this year. A post-race party will have barbeque and music, with picnic tables and other amenities at the pavilion.

More information about Quivering Quads II is available at www.fleetfeetstlouis.com/racing/premier-events/qqii. You can also view a course preview at www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlGzkARXc1Y.