Lace up your trail shoes for the fourth annual Tour de Dodge, set to challenge runners on Saturday, March 7, 2026, in the stunning Governor Dodge State Park in Dodgeville, WI. This event, renowned for its joyful, supportive, and inclusive atmosphere, offers a trio of distances to test every level of trail runner: a grueling 50K, a challenging 27K, and an exhilarating 10K. As a cupless race, the Tour de Dodge prioritizes sustainability, requiring runners to bring their own hydration vessels. Expect typical race day conditions to feature highs around 38°F and lows near 19°F, with a 10% chance of precipitation, meaning participants should be prepared for anything from sun to snow, as March weather in Wisconsin can vary widely and trail conditions may include lingering snow and ice.

The courses are a true highlight, immersing runners in the beautiful Driftless Area of southwestern Wisconsin. All races begin and end at the Amphitheater Lot within Governor Dodge State Park. The 50K course, a "true Governor Dodge experience," covers nearly every corner of the park, taking on a counter-clockwise loop of the Driftless Horse Trail with excursions through iconic areas like Stephens Falls, Mill Creek, and the Cave Trail. Runners tackling the 50K will contend with roughly 4,000 feet of elevation gain over 30.5 miles, characterized by short, steep, and plentiful climbs, supported by seven aid opportunities across five fully stocked stations. The 27K offers a taste of everything the park has to offer, including short, steep climbs, fast sections, and picturesque views of Twin Valley Lake, with approximately 2,300-2,500 feet of elevation gain over 17.5 miles and four aid stations. Even the 10K packs a punch, featuring about 850-900 feet of climbing in just over 6 miles on a clockwise loop of the Meadow Valley, Old Orchard, and Cave Trails, with one aid station available. Be aware that 95% of the courses are on unpaved trails, which are shared with hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians, with equestrians always having the right of way.

Aid stations across all distances are well-stocked with traditional ultra fare such as water, soda, PB&J, fruit, salty snacks, and candy, complemented by portable bathrooms at regular intervals along the course. Given the race occurs during spring turkey hunting season, wearing blaze orange or other high-visibility clothing is strongly advised. All finishers will receive a unique horseshoe medal, with custom versions awarded to the top three in each gender category (men, women, and non-binary), reflecting the race's commitment to inclusivity. Proceeds from the Tour de Dodge directly benefit the Friends of Governor Dodge State Park and the Driftless Area Land Conservancy, contributing to the preservation of this remarkable natural landscape.