Prepare for an unparalleled challenge at the Midwest Everest, an ultra-marathon that truly lives up to its name, set to test your limits on September 26, 2026, in Belmont, MI. Hosted at the scenic Cannonsburg Ski Area, this event is widely regarded as the most difficult 100-mile run in West Michigan, promising to challenge your legs, mind, and spirit. The course for both the 100M and 50M distances primarily consists of relentless "Everesting" loops, each approximately 0.6 miles, ascending the Cannonsburg Quad and descending the Double ski runs. To break the physical and mental repetition, runners can strategically incorporate ~2-mile loops through the wooded single-track trail system at their discretion. Expect typical race day conditions with highs around 70°F and lows near 49°F, with a 15% chance of precipitation, ensuring cool, crisp air for your monumental effort.

The 100-mile journey demands over 30,000 feet of ascent and an equal amount of descent across 152 Everesting loops and four trail loops, while the 50-mile option features over 15,000 feet of gain and loss across 76 Everesting loops and two trail loops. The continuous elevation changes make it notoriously difficult to find a consistent rhythm, pushing participants to dig deep. What makes Midwest Everest truly unique, beyond its demanding elevation profile, is the incredible sense of community fostered by its looped format. Runners pass through the main aid station at the start/finish every loop, providing frequent access to a fully stocked aid station with cold and hot food, unique chef creations, and dedicated crew support areas where friends and family can set up canopies. This constant interaction builds a supportive, "family" type atmosphere that many returning runners cherish, despite the race being affectionately described by some as "terrible" in its glorious difficulty.

Finishing the Midwest Everest is a profound accomplishment, with 100-mile finishers earning a custom-made buckle. The close-knit environment, coupled with the immense physical and mental test, has led many participants to describe the experience as life-changing, instilling newfound confidence and resilience. Be prepared with a headlamp and extra batteries for the overnight hours, as the ski hill lights will not be in use. This isn't just a race; it's an enduring test of will and a celebration of ultra-running camaraderie.