Lake Martin 100

Lace up for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Alabama's wilderness at the Lake Martin 100, set for April 4, 2026, in Alexander City. Offering challenging distances of 100 miles, 50 miles, and a 27-mile fun run, this race is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, often serving as an ideal "first ultra" for those ready to push their limits. Runners will traverse the private lands of the Russell Forest Trail System, immersing themselves in beautiful Southern forests and rolling hills. While the course is largely non-technical with runnable single-track trails, be prepared for relentless, sneaky hills, some featuring roots and granite chunks, that accumulate over each 25-mile loop, leading to over 3,000 feet of elevation gain per loop. Typical race day conditions in early April feature comfortable highs around 74F and lows near 46F, with a 16% chance of precipitation, meaning largely dry, sandy trails.

The Lake Martin 100 is often called a "Deceptive Killer!" as its initial ease gives way to a formidable challenge, with hills growing steeper and longer as the miles tick by. To conquer this unique course, seasoned runners recommend starting "ridiculously slow" for the first 50 miles. The looped format simplifies logistics with two well-stocked aid stations: The Cabin at the start/finish line (17 Russell Farms Road, Alexander City, AL 35010), and the Heaven Hill aid station. These stations, strategically located 5 to 7 miles apart by trail, provide full service and are celebrated for their supportive volunteers and energetic atmosphere, particularly Heaven Hill, which is known as a "bright shining oasis" with music and dedicated crew. The start/finish area also provides easy access for crews and personal drop bags.

Whether you're aiming for your first ultra or a new 100-mile personal best, the Lake Martin 100 promises a supportive and memorable experience. The 32-hour cutoff for the 100-miler makes it an accessible goal for many. Despite its name, you won't see much of the actual lake, but the stunning forested scenery and the supportive community ensure an enriching journey through Alabama's captivating landscape. The 50-mile race kicks off at 6:30 AM, with the 50K following at 6:35 AM, preceded by a brief race briefing for all distances at 6:20 AM.