The Hocking Hills Ultra Marathon, also known as the Hocking Hills Trail Run, is a premier trail running event held in the picturesque Hocking Hills region of Ohio. This challenging race offers runners the opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the area while pushing their limits on a diverse and demanding course.
Distances Offered
The Hocking Hills Ultra Marathon features several distance options to cater to runners of various skill levels:
| Distance | Length |
|---|---|
| 60K (37.28 miles) | The longest and most demanding distance, requiring runners to complete the 20K trail three times. |
| 40K (24.85 miles) | Involves running the 20K trail twice. |
| 20K | A shorter but still challenging distance that covers a significant portion of the trail. |
| 10K | A shorter distance that starts at a different location and joins the main trail. |
| 5K | The shortest distance, also starting at a different location and joining the main trail. |
Terrain and Challenges
The Hocking Hills Trail Run takes place in the Hocking Hills State Park and Hocking State Forest, offering runners a diverse and challenging terrain:
- Wooded Areas: Runners will navigate through dense, lush forests.
- Streams: The course includes stream crossings that add an extra element of difficulty.
- Deep Gorges: Runners will encounter steep and narrow gorges, testing their agility and endurance.
- Waterfalls: The trail passes by scenic waterfalls, providing a breathtaking backdrop for the event.
- Uphill and Downhill Sections: Runners will face both challenging uphill and technical downhill sections, requiring them to adjust their pace and technique accordingly.
Logistics and Event Details
The Hocking Hills Ultra Marathon is meticulously organized to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants:
- Start Times: The 60K race starts at 7 a.m., the 40K at 8 a.m., and the 10K, 20K, and 5K have individual starts between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.
- Aid Stations: Water stops are strategically placed along the course, including at Steel Hill/Chapel Ridge Road, Cedar Falls parking lot, the beginning of the Campground, and the Naturalist’s Cabin.
- Chip Timing: The event utilizes chip timing to accurately record finish times.
- Registration and Check-in: Same-day registration and check-in for pre-registered runners begin at 6:30 a.m.
- Start and Finish Location: All races start and finish at the Hocking Hills State Park Naturalist Cabin, 19852 S.R. 664 S in Logan, Ohio.
- Pets and Walkers: Pets are allowed to run with their owners (on a leash), and walkers are also welcome to participate.
Additional Considerations
While the Hocking Hills Ultra Marathon offers a remarkable running experience, there are a few additional details to keep in mind:
- Gear Check and Showers: These services are not available at the event.
- Course Maps: Detailed course maps for each distance are available on the event website.
- Directions: The event website provides clear directions to the start and finish locations.
Registration and Cost
Runners interested in participating in the Hocking Hills Ultra Marathon can register through the event’s official website, RunSignup. The cost varies depending on the chosen distance, but the exact prices are not specified on the provided sources.
The Hocking Hills Ultra Marathon is a must-attend event for trail running enthusiasts seeking a challenging and scenic adventure in the heart of Ohio’s Hocking Hills region. With its diverse terrain, stunning natural surroundings, and well-organized logistics, this race promises an unforgettable experience for runners of all skill levels.