Stairway 5k by Ode to Laz

Lace up your trail shoes for an unforgettable experience at the Stairway 5k by Ode to Laz, set to challenge and delight runners on July 19, 2026, in Holly, MI. Held within the stunning Holly Recreation Area, a true jewel of Michigan's state park system, this event offers two distinct 3.1-mile adventures, each culminating in the famous "Stairway to Heaven." Typical race day conditions in mid-July feature pleasant highs around 81°F and lows near 58°F, with a slight 14% chance of precipitation, making for ideal running weather.

Choose your challenge: the "Stairway to Heaven 5k" kicks off as the "easy one," guiding you along the scenic, rolling Wilderness trail in an out-and-back course before tackling one loop up and down the iconic stairway. For those seeking an extreme test of endurance, the "Stairway to Hell 5k" lives up to its name, demanding 12 consecutive ascents of the "Stairway to Heaven," accumulating approximately 1100 feet of vertical gain without rest between loops. This grueling feat has earned it the reputation as potentially the hardest 5k in Michigan, if not the entire country.

Beyond the personal challenge, the Stairway 5k is a vibrant part of the larger Ode to Laz weekend festival, renowned for creating the "coolest vibe in running" and fostering an inclusive "Ode Family" atmosphere. Runners will start and finish from the Overlook Picnic Shelter area, with plenty of family-friendly activities available throughout Holly Recreation Area, including kayaking, fishing, camping, and splashing at Lake Heron's Whoa Zone. You'll also have the unique opportunity to cheer on the relentless Ode to Laz ultra runners as they conquer their own epic journey, all while earning a coveted Ode medal to proudly display your accomplishment.