Running to preserve open lands

The Waltham Land Trust’s annual Western Greenway 5K returned Sunday, drawing runners and walkers to Beaver Brook North Reservation and Rock Meadow for a scenic fall outing.

The event kicked off at noon near the McLaughlin Building on Metropolitan Parkway North, with a 50-yard Monster Dash for children 10 and under held earlier at 11:30 a.m. Participants enjoyed peak foliage and trails winding through cattail marshes, forests, vernal pools and meadows.

Open to both serious runners and casual walkers, the 3.1-mile race is the Land Trust’s largest fundraiser of the year. Proceeds support the nonprofit’s efforts to protect, restore and expand open space throughout Waltham.