Serious runners will get a chance to hit the trails in Bedford when The Educational Farm at Joppa Hill will host its first-ever Farm Critter Frolic 5K race.

The race takes place Sunday, Oct. 19, beginning at 1 p.m., rain or shine. Runners will be the only ones allowed on the trails during the race, though organizer Karyn Russell Merriman said anyone is welcome on the trails at the conclusion of the 5K. Following the race, The Educational Farm at Joppa Hill will host its annual Fall Fair from 2 to 6 p.m.

The trail is a difficult one made up mainly of hills, possibly muddy terrain, and a few shallow openwater spots.

“It’s something I’ve been wanting to do for years, and it brings awareness to the beautiful trails out there and the farm,” said Merriman. “We’re trying to make it a fun lead-in to the fair, and a challenging, fun race.”

Registration fee is $20 for runners who sign up in advance before Oct. 17; the cost is $25 on the day of the race.

With the sign-up fee comes a T-shirt to the first 100 entries, goodie bags to all runners and a raffle ticket. Awards will be given out following the race to the top overall male and female competitors and also to a variety of age-group winners.

Merriman said she got the idea for the event based on her own passion for trail running. “I love to run on trails and thought it would be a great thing to organize,” she said. “I never had a right time and area to do it, and now the trails are in great shape for a race like this.”

Those interested in the 5K race can visit www.3CRaceProductions.com.

Because of the difficult nature of the course, no strollers or headsets are allowed. Merriman said she’s excited about race day, though she joked that there is only one thing she will be disappointed about. “I just wish I could run it myself,” she said.

The farm’s Fall Fair will feature animals, pony and hay rides, food, and make-your-own tie-dyed T-shirts and beeswax candles.

The farm is located at 174 Joppa Hill Road. For more information, visit www.theeducationalfarm.org.