When is Wakely Dam Ultra?

Wakely Dam Ultra takes place on Jul 18, 2026. That's in 1 month.

Where is Wakely Dam Ultra located?

Wakely Dam Ultra is held in Piseco, New York, United States.

What distances are available at Wakely Dam Ultra?

Wakely Dam Ultra offers the following distances: 55K.

What is the typical weather for Wakely Dam Ultra?

Based on historical data, you can expect temperatures between 55°F and 76°F on race day. There's approximately a 18% chance of precipitation.

Wakely Dam Ultra (55K) - Jul 18, 2026 | Piseco, NY

The Wakely Dam Ultra, set for July 18, 2026, in Piseco, NY, offers a formidable 55K challenge through the breathtaking Adirondack Park wilderness. This "old school ultra" is renowned for its extremely remote and rugged course, tracing a demanding section of the Northville Placid Trail between Piseco Lake and the Wakely Dam. Runners will navigate approximately 3,300 feet of elevation gain over technical single-track trails, characterized by gnarly terrain, potential mud, slippery log bridges, and numerous blowdowns. The trail itself, established in 1922, has seen deterioration over the years, with rotten footbridges and extreme erosion adding to the challenge. Typical race day conditions in mid-July feature highs around 76°F and lows around 55°F, with an 18% chance of precipitation, making for potentially humid and warm conditions that further test endurance.

What truly sets the Wakely Dam Ultra apart is its unwavering commitment to self-reliance. There are no aid stations along the course; participants are entirely self-supported, responsible for carrying all their own nourishment and water, often requiring them to filter from natural sources. Once runners enter this isolated stretch of trail, there are no cross-roads or bailout points—the only way out is to reach the finish line at Piseco Airport or turn back. This unforgiving but scenic environment fosters a profound sense of isolation and demands meticulous planning, physical fitness, and unyielding mental toughness.

The race has cultivated a reputation as a deceptively difficult event, attracting a dedicated community of trail runners, with spots often selling out rapidly. Athlete check-in and a pre-race pasta dinner are held at Piseco Airport, which also serves as the finish line and hosts a welcoming post-race celebration for runners and their families. Conquering the Wakely Dam Ultra is a significant achievement in the ultrarunning world, a testament to personal grit amidst the raw beauty of the Adirondacks, and finishers are awarded a unique postcard as a memento of their triumph.