UltraRunning Magazine Presents: Old School Ultras – Class of 2026
There’s a certain kind of race that built this sport — no frills, no hype machines, just honest miles, rugged terrain, and the kind of community that remembers your name at the finish line. Old School Ultras – Class of 2026 celebrates the events that helped shape ultrarunning into what it is today.
These are the grassroots races. The ones that existed before lotteries were trendy. The ones run by passionate trail stewards and local legends. The ones where buckle earners, first-timers, and decades-deep veterans all share the same course.
If you’re looking for authentic ultrarunning — this is your list.
What “Old School” Means
- Runner-focused, community-driven events
- Thoughtfully challenging courses with real terrain
- Longstanding race traditions and history
- Dedicated volunteers and experienced race directors
- A welcoming vibe for both first-timers and seasoned ultrarunners
These races don’t need flash. They’ve earned their reputation mile by mile.
2026 Old School Ultras
Stump JumpRegister: UltraSignupPremier Southeast 50K and 10 Miler featuring 90% singletrack, Tennessee River Gorge views, and 25 years of trail tradition.
Grasslands Trail RunRegister: UltraSignupWide-open prairie miles and classic endurance grit.
Syllamo’s Revenge 3 Days of SyllamoRegister: UltraSignupA rugged multi-day challenge built for runners who love climbing and technical trails.
Mad City UltrasWebsite: Official SiteUrban-meets-trail endurance with Midwest heart and community energy.
McDonald Forest Trail RunRegister: UltraSignupOne of Oregon’s oldest ultras, “The Mac” delivers 30 years of forest singletrack, McCulloch Peak climbing, and a signature pine-needle downhill finish.
Silver State 50/50Register: UltraSignupHigh-desert beauty with serious climbing and Nevada grit.
Kettle Moraine 100Register: UltraSignupA storied Midwest hundred with deep roots and legendary buckle history.
Knee Knackering North Shore Trail RunWebsite: Official SiteIconic mountain terrain and a reputation for toughness.
Skyline 50KRegister: UltraSignupElevated views, sustained climbs, and rewarding miles.
Baker Trail Ultra ChallengeRegister: UltraSignupA 50-mile point-to-point ultra on the historic Baker Trail featuring road-to-woods terrain, navigational focus, and a unique three-part finisher medal series.
TARC Stone Cat Trail FestivalWebsite: Official SiteNew England trail tradition with community at its core.
Old School Alumni
Event's current local time: 1:57 PM GMT
