Black Bear

Race Details

The 36 Hours of Black Bear starts at 9:20am on Saturday, March 7, 2026, and the 15 Miler starts at 9am. This is a loop course on the Shores Lake/White Rock spur of the Ozark Highlands Trail, starting and finishing at Shores Lake Recreation Area. The trail is described as very technical with significant elevation gain per mile.

Each loop is approximately 15 miles with over 3500 feet of elevation gain. The 36-hour event allows participants to complete multiple loops within the time limit, with credit given for complete loops. For example, 8 loops would be approximately 120 miles with over 28,000 feet of elevation gain.

The event is limited to 15 runners (combined distances). Runners will alternate directions with each loop (Clockwise/Counter-Clockwise).

At the start/finish at Shores Lake, there will be bonfires, camping, food, and beverages. Suggested food items include quesadillas, avocados, peanut butter, pizza, sodas, tailwind, chips, turkey burgers, and veggie burgers. Gels will not be provided. Participants are advised to bring their own preferred nutrition.

Aid stations will be located at the start/finish at Shores Lake and at the White Rock Trailhead on every loop. There will be light aid (water) at two county road crossings. Due to recent bear activity, food cannot be left unattended.

Participants are advised to bring necessary gear, including blister kits, rain gear, anti-chafing cream, and extra shoes. Multiple light sources are recommended for night loops.

The event may be canceled in case of extreme weather such as tornadoes or ice/snow storms.

Courses

• 15 Miler: ~15 miles, 3500' of gain. Sport: RUNNING.
• 36 Hours of Black Bear: Loop course, each loop ~15 miles, 3500' of gain. Sport: RUNNING.

Registration

Registration closes: Friday, March 6, 2026, at 11:59 PM CT.

Tentative date due to campground reopening status after flooding in 2024 and limited access in 2025.

Start Times

• 15 Miler: 9:00 AM CT
• 36hrs: 9:20 AM CT