Lace up for Ultrapalooza, "the flattest, awesome-est, running-est party in the Midwest!" set for September 26, 2026, in Osawatomie, Kansas. This event, proudly presented by Midwest Endurance Race Co. and part of the Kansas Super Slam of Ultrarunning Series, offers a distance for every runner, from a challenging 100-mile ultra to a swift 5K, alongside 100K, 50-mile, 50K, Marathon, and Half Marathon options. The course is an out-and-back design on the picturesque Flint Hills Trail, known for its flat, fast, crushed gravel surface. Runners will traverse single track, old railroad beds, and towpath sections, immersing themselves in the last remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystem in the world. Expect stunning views, diverse prairie plant and wildlife, and a journey alongside the Marais Des Cygnes River, through rolling farmland and riparian woodlands.

The race central hub is at Mile 0 of the Flint Hills trailhead in Osawatomie, where all distances begin and end. This vibrant start/finish area fosters a lively atmosphere with music, a food truck, restrooms, and plenty of space for crews to cheer on their runners with cowbells ringing for every finisher. You won't get lost on this "mostly straight, staffed well, and marked the best" course. Aid stations, both manned and unmanned, are strategically placed no more than 4 to 6 miles apart. Manned stations are fully stocked with water, Hammer Nutrition HEED electrolyte drinks, a variety of snack foods, sandwiches, chips, candy, and Hammer gels to keep you fueled. Drop bag access is also available at manned aid stations for ultra distances.

Typical race day conditions in late September often bring comfortable highs around 76°F and lows around 52°F, with about a 14% chance of precipitation. However, participants should be prepared for unpredictable weather, as temperatures have been known to reach triple digits. Ultrapalooza is more than just a race; it's an experience offering unique awards, distance-specific hardware, customized technical blend race shirts, and a Hammer swag bag. Whether you're aiming for a personal record on the flat, fast course or tackling your first ultra, Ultrapalooza promises a memorable and supported journey through the heart of Kansas.