Ice Age Trail Run

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Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Wisconsin's Southern Kettle Moraine Forest at the Ice Age Trail Run on May 9, 2026, in Whitewater, WI. This iconic event, offering 50M, 50K, and 13.1M distances, is one of the oldest continuously running ultramarathons in the country, renowned for its top-notch organization and vibrant atmosphere. Runners will traverse portions of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, one of only eleven such trails in the U.S., experiencing a diverse and beautiful landscape shaped by ancient glaciers.

The course is a captivating blend of runnable sections and challenging terrain, guiding participants through evergreen and deciduous forests, rolling prairies, and past picturesque lakes, ponds, and unique glacial formations like eskers and kettles. Expect a mix of well-groomed cross-country ski trails and twisting, root and rock-covered single-track, featuring incessant yet manageable hills. The 50-mile and 50K races begin at the Nordic trailhead, leading into a loop on the Nordic trail before venturing onto exhilarating out-and-back segments that delve deeper into the scenic wilderness. Aid stations are plentiful, well-stocked with essentials like water, HEED, soda, PB&J, fruits, and candies, and staffed by an enthusiastic team of volunteers praised for being "nothing short of brilliant" and "knowledgeable and cheerful".

Typical race day conditions in mid-May present ideal running weather, with historical highs around 66°F and lows around 44°F, alongside a modest 17% chance of precipitation. Beyond the scenic and challenging course, the Ice Age Trail Run is celebrated for its supportive community and festive post-race party, complete with a catered lunch, free beer, and an awards ceremony where 50-mile finishers proudly earn a coveted belt buckle. This race routinely sells out quickly, a testament to its reputation as a world-class trail event and a perfect choice for those seeking a rewarding and memorable trail running experience in a truly unique geological setting.

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