Lace up for an unforgettable challenge at Dances With Dirt - Gnaw Bone on May 16, 2026, in Nashville, Indiana. This iconic event is renowned for delivering "pure trail mayhem" amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of Brown County, promising an adventure that will leave you muddy, tired, and grinning from ear to ear. Offering distances from 5K to a grueling 100K, 50M, 50K, Marathon (26.2M), and Half Marathon (13.1M), there's a test of grit for every trail runner. Typical race day conditions in mid-May bring comfortable highs around 74°F and lows around 53°F, with a 20% chance of precipitation adding to the "dirt" experience.

The course itself is a "wild, unpredictable adventure," traversing rugged trails, steep climbs, and numerous creek crossings through Brown County State Park and Yellowwood State Forest. Expect to conquer vicious 600-foot ridges and navigate challenging terrain that includes everything from technical singletrack to off-trail sections and even downriver wades. The 10K distance, in particular, has earned a fearsome reputation as "the world's most difficult 10K," demanding double your road time and triple the effort. Even the longer distances are described as relentlessly challenging, with the 50-mile race boasting a brutal 2,182 meters (7,159 feet) of elevation gain.

Runners consistently praise the "extremely well marked" course, ensuring you can focus on the challenge and stunning scenery. Well-stocked aid stations offer "real food" essentials like bananas, PB&J, and salted potatoes to fuel your journey. Beyond the trails, the charming artisan community of Nashville, Indiana, just a mile from Gnaw Bone, offers a picturesque backdrop for pre- and post-race exploration. Every entry includes a post-race barbecue bash and brew, along with a finisher medal, celebrating your accomplishment at this unique and notoriously tough trail race.