Mission Adventure Race

The Mission Adventure Race, set for May 2-3, 2026, in Borden, Indiana, offers adventure enthusiasts a true test of endurance and navigational prowess across two challenging formats: the demanding 18-hour race and the more accessible 4-hour MISSION Lite. As Indiana's longest-running annual adventure race, this event, produced by DINO since 2003, is renowned as one of the region's most competitive and engaging. Participants will navigate by foot, bicycle, and canoe, utilizing only a map and compass to find checkpoints across diverse natural and manmade terrain, pushing their physical and mental limits. Typical race day conditions in early May feature comfortable highs around 74F and lows near 53F, with a 23% chance of precipitation, providing a dynamic backdrop for this outdoor adventure.

The course is strategically designed to challenge most 18-hour teams to race right up to the cutoff time, with an emphasis on critical route choice and strategic thinking over a predetermined path. The event, based at 1217 Deam Lake Rd, Borden, IN, promises "unforgettable excitement and camaraderie," culminating in a dramatic finish line where family and friends can cheer as teams emerge, even from the darkness. While the 18-hour race demands self-sufficiency, the 4-hour Lite option provides a beginner-friendly introduction to adventure racing with simpler navigation and a shorter gear list. The Mission Adventure Race is a USARA Regional Qualifier, making it a significant event for competitive teams and a thrilling experience for anyone seeking an authentic wilderness challenge.