Bleak Midwinter Endurance Run
IT'S BACK! The Bleak Midwinter Endurance Run, a timed endurance run on a 4.15-ish mile loop trail, returns with a new sponsor, a new course, and a new batch of Crows on a Stick. We offer four different timed events: a 12, 6, 3, and 1 hour run option. We'll keep it simple and enjoyable for everyone with great support, lots of food, and fun swag.
Location:
Sac River Mountain Bike Trails is located off Highway 13, three miles north of I-44 in Springfield, MO. Heading north, watch for a blue highway sign marking the westbound turn onto an unnamed road to the Northwest Water Treatment Plant. There isn't a physical address for the trailhead, but the location is accurate on Google Maps and Apple Maps if you search for "Sac River Mountain Bike Trails". You can also enter 4801 RT-13 S Springfield, MO 65803 and it'll get you pretty close. This 300-acre park with over 14 miles of interconnected single-track trail is managed by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board and Ozark Greenways.
Race Distances and Start Times:
12 Hour Run: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
6 Hour Run: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
3 Hour Run: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
1 Hour Run: 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Packet Pickup:
January 23, 2027 at Sac River Mountain Bike Trails.
12 and 6 Hour Run: 6:00 a.m. – 6:45 a.m.
3 and 1 Hour Run: 8:00 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.
Registration Fees:
12 Hour Run: $95
6 Hour Run: $75
3 Hour Run: $55
1 Hour Run: $35
Course Info and Terrain:
The 4.15-ish mile loop consists of moderately technical single-track with lots of rocks and roots. Marked with permanent signs, the trail meanders through hardwood forests and small glades and will be marked with temporary directional signs, survey flags and ribbons. Going counterclockwise, runners will trend uphill the first mile and then enjoy a mix of hills, descents, and flats for the remainder of the course, with approximately 400 feet of elevation gain per lap. IMPORTANT: All runners will start the race in the same direction but, after the first lap, may run the loop in either direction, checking in between each lap.
Tracking Mileage/Laps: Only completed laps will count for mileage. Runners must check in between each lap to ensure their completed lap is recorded. All laps must be completed before the end of the timed event in order to be counted.
Aid Station:
Located at the start/finish line, our Base Camp Pavilion Aid Station will provide all the food, drinks, warmth, and support for our runners. Also, plenty of room is available around the pavilion for crews to set up tents for their runners. Port-a-potties and first aid will be located at the Base Camp Pavilion Aid Station.
Swag and Finishers Awards:
All registered runners will receive custom swag. 12 hour and 6 hour runners will receive additional swag. 50K (8 laps) and 50M (12 laps) finishers will earn a special award.
Refund/Rollover Policy:
The Bleak Midwinter Endurance Run will take place rain, snow, or shine. The only reason it would be cancelled is for safety reasons (due to extreme weather) or factors beyond our control (permit revoked due to weather or trail conditions, etc.). No refunds will we be available.
Dogs are allowed but must be on leash. No cats.
All proceeds from Bleak Midwinter Endurance Run support Headington Hill Classical Academy in Springfield, MO. Your participation helps create a fund for students needing assistance with books, uniforms, and tuition. Headington Hill Classical Academy is a 501c3 non-profit organization. Learn more at https://headingtonhill.academy
Event's current local time: 8:29 AM CT
