Trail running course through singletrack trails in Missouri, USA
Ozark Foothills Endurance Runs

Ozark Foothills Endurance Runs — Marathon

Marathon·5,823 ft gain·Wildwood, Missouri
foresttechnicalnighttrailloopmarathon

AI-generated image

DistanceMarathon
Gain5,823 ft
DateApr 11, 2026
Difficulty3/5

About This Race

The marathon distance provides a trail running experience that bridges the gap between road marathons and ultra racing, offering runners their first taste of extended time on forest trails. This option works well for runners curious about trail running but not ready for ultra distances, or for experienced trail runners seeking a faster-paced effort. The familiar 26.2-mile distance removes one variable while introducing the challenges of trail terrain and navigation.

The race follows a looped course through Greensfelder County Park's trail system, showcasing some of the region's most challenging and scenic terrain. Runners navigate more than 80 percent singletrack trails that wind through the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, encountering everything from steep climbs to rolling descents. The technical nature of the course, with its mix of roots, rocks, and varied elevation changes, requires runners to stay present and engaged throughout their effort.

The terrain ranges from demanding steep grades that test climbing strength to flowing singletrack sections that reward rhythm and flow. This variety keeps the course interesting across multiple loops while providing different challenges as fatigue sets in during longer distances.

Elevation Profile

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

The course gains 5,823 ft over 26 miles, with the steepest section between mile 1–mile 1.

Location

Practical Info

Weather

April in Missouri typically offers mild spring conditions with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 70s Fahrenheit, though runners should prepare for potential rain and variable conditions.

Nearest Airport

STL - Lambert-St. Louis International Airport

Accommodation

The race partners with Drury Inn & Suites St. Louis Southwest (15 minutes from the start) for group rates. Greensfelder County Park offers tent camping and RV hookups with showers. Additional lodging options available in Wildwood, Ballwin, Fenton, Chesterfield, and Ellisville.

Best For

Experienced trail runnersUltra runners seeking technical terrainRunners wanting a supportive community atmosphere

Notable Features

The Ozark Foothills stands out for its commitment to diversity and inclusion through the Trail Mix Fund partnership, which waives registration fees for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ runners or those facing financial barriers. The race also features a unique 500 Miles Club for repeat participants and offers a rare night 50K option alongside traditional distances. The technical, root-and-rock-filled singletrack provides a genuine challenge while the looped format creates excellent spectator and crew access opportunities.

Other Distances at This Event

25K Ruck

3,442 ft gain

The race follows a looped course through Greensfelder County Park's trail system, showcasing some of the region's most challenging and scenic terrain. Runners navigate more than 80 percent singletrack trails that wind through the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, encountering everything from steep climbs to rolling descents. The technical nature of the course, with its mix of roots, rocks, and varied elevation changes, requires runners to stay present and engaged throughout their effort. The terrain ranges from demanding steep grades that test climbing strength to flowing singletrack sections that reward rhythm and flow. This variety keeps the course interesting across multiple loops while providing different challenges as fatigue sets in during longer distances.

25K

3,442 ft gain

The race follows a looped course through Greensfelder County Park's trail system, showcasing some of the region's most challenging and scenic terrain. Runners navigate more than 80 percent singletrack trails that wind through the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, encountering everything from steep climbs to rolling descents. The technical nature of the course, with its mix of roots, rocks, and varied elevation changes, requires runners to stay present and engaged throughout their effort. The terrain ranges from demanding steep grades that test climbing strength to flowing singletrack sections that reward rhythm and flow. This variety keeps the course interesting across multiple loops while providing different challenges as fatigue sets in during longer distances.

50K

6,063 ft gain

The race follows a looped course through Greensfelder County Park's trail system, showcasing some of the region's most challenging and scenic terrain. Runners navigate more than 80 percent singletrack trails that wind through the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, encountering everything from steep climbs to rolling descents. The technical nature of the course, with its mix of roots, rocks, and varied elevation changes, requires runners to stay present and engaged throughout their effort. The terrain ranges from demanding steep grades that test climbing strength to flowing singletrack sections that reward rhythm and flow. This variety keeps the course interesting across multiple loops while providing different challenges as fatigue sets in during longer distances.

Night 50K

6,063 ft gain

The race follows a looped course through Greensfelder County Park's trail system, showcasing some of the region's most challenging and scenic terrain. Runners navigate more than 80 percent singletrack trails that wind through the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, encountering everything from steep climbs to rolling descents. The technical nature of the course, with its mix of roots, rocks, and varied elevation changes, requires runners to stay present and engaged throughout their effort. The terrain ranges from demanding steep grades that test climbing strength to flowing singletrack sections that reward rhythm and flow. This variety keeps the course interesting across multiple loops while providing different challenges as fatigue sets in during longer distances.

50 Miles

5,896 ft gain

The race follows a looped course through Greensfelder County Park's trail system, showcasing some of the region's most challenging and scenic terrain. Runners navigate more than 80 percent singletrack trails that wind through the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, encountering everything from steep climbs to rolling descents. The technical nature of the course, with its mix of roots, rocks, and varied elevation changes, requires runners to stay present and engaged throughout their effort. The terrain ranges from demanding steep grades that test climbing strength to flowing singletrack sections that reward rhythm and flow. This variety keeps the course interesting across multiple loops while providing different challenges as fatigue sets in during longer distances.

100K

6,132 ft gain

The race follows a looped course through Greensfelder County Park's trail system, showcasing some of the region's most challenging and scenic terrain. Runners navigate more than 80 percent singletrack trails that wind through the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, encountering everything from steep climbs to rolling descents. The technical nature of the course, with its mix of roots, rocks, and varied elevation changes, requires runners to stay present and engaged throughout their effort. The terrain ranges from demanding steep grades that test climbing strength to flowing singletrack sections that reward rhythm and flow. This variety keeps the course interesting across multiple loops while providing different challenges as fatigue sets in during longer distances.

100 Miles

997 ft gain

The race follows a looped course through Greensfelder County Park's trail system, showcasing some of the region's most challenging and scenic terrain. Runners navigate more than 80 percent singletrack trails that wind through the foothills of the Ozark Mountains, encountering everything from steep climbs to rolling descents. The technical nature of the course, with its mix of roots, rocks, and varied elevation changes, requires runners to stay present and engaged throughout their effort. The terrain ranges from demanding steep grades that test climbing strength to flowing singletrack sections that reward rhythm and flow. This variety keeps the course interesting across multiple loops while providing different challenges as fatigue sets in during longer distances.