Mt Difficulty Ascent

Mt Difficulty Ascent 44K

44K·874m gain·Bannockburn, New Zealand
ultramountaintechnicaltrailpoint to point
Distance44K
Gain874m
Date13 Jun 2026
Difficulty5/5

About This Race

The 44K extends beyond the 25K turnaround point for additional ridge running and technical terrain. This ultra distance demands sustained focus through repeated technical sections while managing nutrition and safety gear over the full mountain traverse with a 5pm cutoff time.

The 44K extends beyond the 25K turnaround point for additional ridge running and technical terrain. This ultra distance demands sustained focus through repeated technical sections while managing nutrition and safety gear over the full mountain traverse with a 5pm cutoff time.

Elevation Profile

Elevation profile estimated from terrain data. Actual course may differ.

The course gains 874m over 44km, with the steepest section between km 52–km 52.

Location

Practical Info

Weather

Mountain conditions with potential for snow, rain, and boggy terrain requiring waterproof gear

Nearest Airport

ZQN - Queenstown Airport

Accommodation

Located in Central Otago wine country near Cromwell, with gear check and briefing at Mt Difficulty Winery

Required Gear
  • small day backpack
  • rain jacket
  • merino or thermal long sleeve top
  • extra fleece/mid weight wool top
  • long thermal tights or trousers
  • warm beanie
  • warm gloves
  • survival bag
  • whistle
  • water bottles/bladders for 1 litre
  • sturdy shoes with good grip

Best For

experienced trail runnersmountain runnersadventure runners

Notable Features

This adventure run features four "cautionary" technical sections requiring scrambling skills, including the signature 500-meter climb over one kilometer at 50% gradient. The course combines unmarked mountain terrain with vineyard trails, demanding comprehensive mountain safety gear and experience with technical terrain.