About This Race
The 5K provides the most accessible entry point into trail running, designed for runners taking their first steps off the pavement. This shorter distance emphasizes trail skills and terrain awareness over endurance, making it perfect for families and beginning trail runners. The course offers a genuine trail experience condensed into a format that builds confidence rather than intimidation.
The race is built around a 10K loop that combines approximately 5.5 miles of rolling single track with a challenging 0.7-mile ski hill segment. The 5K uses the same loop with a shortcut, positioning the ski hill climb at the end of the race. Distance runners face the ski hill multiple times: 25K participants complete one 5K loop followed by two 10K loops, while 50K runners take on the full 10K loop five times.
The single track sections wind through the natural terrain around Cannonsburg Ski Area, offering typical Michigan trail conditions with rolling hills and forest paths. The ski hill segment provides the course's most significant elevation challenge, requiring runners to ascend and descend the slope that serves skiers in winter months.
Elevation Profile
Elevation profile estimated from terrain data. Actual course may differ.
Location
Notable Features
The race's signature element is the ski hill climb and descent, which becomes increasingly challenging as ultra runners face it multiple times. The loop-based format creates excellent opportunities for spectating and crew support while the combination of rolling single track and ski slope terrain offers a distinctive running experience not commonly found in Midwest trail racing.