About This Race
The Cossatot River Trail Run takes runners through Arkansas's Ouachita Mountains along the wild and scenic Cossatot River at Cossatot River State Park. This endurance event offers both 12.5-mile "Half Marathon" and 25-mile "Marathon" distances through rugged terrain that showcases one of Arkansas's most pristine river systems. The race follows a point-to-point course for the first 12.5 miles before transitioning to an out-and-back format, with all runners finishing at the state park in Wickes. The Cossatot River, known for its challenging whitewater rapids and crystal-clear pools, provides a stunning backdrop as runners navigate trails that wind through dense hardwood forests and rocky terrain characteristic of the Ouachita Mountains. With a 6:00 AM start time and space for 500 participants, this race attracts runners seeking a true wilderness experience in one of Arkansas's most remote and beautiful regions. The state park setting offers convenient facilities for runners and spectators, while the remote location ensures an authentic backcountry trail running experience.
The course begins as a 12.5-mile point-to-point section through the Ouachita Mountains, following trails that parallel the Cossatot River through dense forest terrain. Marathon runners continue for an additional out-and-back segment before returning to the finish at Cossatot River State Park in Wickes.
The terrain consists entirely of natural paths winding through Arkansas's signature hardwood forests and rocky outcroppings. Runners experience the wild character of the Cossatot River corridor, with trail surfaces varying from forest floor to rocky sections typical of Ouachita Mountain terrain.
Location
Practical Info
Late September in Arkansas typically features mild temperatures with warm days and cool mornings, though humidity can be high and afternoon thunderstorms are possible.
XNA - Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport
Cossatot River State Park offers camping facilities, while nearby towns like Mena provide additional lodging options for runners traveling from outside the region.
Best For
Notable Features
The race showcases the pristine Cossatot River, one of Arkansas's premier wild and scenic waterways, while traversing the rugged terrain of the Ouachita Mountains. The combination of point-to-point and out-and-back formats provides varied scenery, and the state park finish offers excellent facilities in an otherwise remote wilderness setting.