Ultrapalooza

Ultrapalooza - September 26 - 27, 2026

Midwest Endurance presents Ultrapalooza, described as the "flattest, awesome-est, running-est party in the Midwest!" The race utilizes the Flint Hills Trail, a flat, fast, crushed gravel path that winds through the beautiful Flint Hills ecosystem and alongside the Marais Des Cygnes River. The trail is the seventh-longest rail-trail in America and the longest in Kansas, also forming part of the American Discovery Trail.

The event is scheduled for late September, with average temperatures ranging from 63 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit, though participants are advised to be prepared for unpredictable weather.

Awards, Swag & Features:

• Customized unisex technical blend race shirts (guaranteed if registered by September 5th).
• Abundantly stocked aid stations with knowledgeable captains.
• Hammer swag bag with product.
• Distance-specific hardware and unique awards for Top M/F Overall in all distances.
• Professional photography to capture the event.

Start/Finish:

All races start and finish at the Mile 0 Flint Hills trail head in Osawatomie, KS. This location serves as the main hub, featuring music, a food truck, and restrooms.

Cut Off Times:

• 100 Miler & 100K: 30-hour limit.
• 50 Miler: 30-hour limit.
• 50K & Marathon: 12-hour limit.
• Half Marathon: 6-hour limit.

Course Description:

The course is an out-and-back on a flat, crushed gravel path, consisting of single track trail, old railroad beds, and towpath trail. It offers views of prairie flora and fauna, historic sites, and recreational areas. The course is well-marked and staffed.

Aid Stations:

Manned aid stations are located no more than 4 miles apart and offer water, Hammer Nutrition products, snacks, sandwiches, chips, candy, and gels. Unmanned stations provide water only.

Schedule of Events:

• Friday, September 26th: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM - Packet Pickup
• Saturday, September 27th:
  • 5:00 AM - 5:45 AM - Race Day Packet Pickup (100 mile/100k/50 mile)
  • 5:45 AM - Pre-Race instructions/National Anthem
  • 6:00 AM - 100 mile/100k/50 mile RACE START
  • 5:45 AM - 6:15 AM - Race Day Packet Pickup (50K and Marathon)
  • 6:30 AM - 50K and Marathon RACE START
  • 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM - Race Day Packet Pickup (Half Marathon)
  • 7:00 AM - Half Marathon START
  • 1:00 PM - Half Marathon CLOSES
  • 6:30 PM - 50K CLOSES
• Sunday, September 28th:
  • 12:00 AM - Ottawa aid station closes
  • 1:00 AM - Marshall/Marshall aid station closes
  • 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM - Registration and Packet Pick Up (10K/5K)
  • 6:45 AM - Pre-Race briefing for 10K/5K; National Anthem
  • 7:00 AM - 10K/5K Start
  • 9:00 AM - 5K Closes
  • 10:00 AM - 10K Closes
  • 10:00 AM - Rantoul aid station closes
  • 11:00 AM - Indianapolis aid station closes
  • 12:00 PM - 100 Mile, 100K, and 50 Mile Races Close
  • 12:01 PM - Tear down begins

Race Rules:

Participants must adhere to rules including keeping pets leashed, no littering, staying on designated trails, respecting staff, and only meeting crews at designated aid stations.

Medical Form & Pacers:

A completed Medical Information Sheet is required at Packet Pickup. Pacers are allowed for 100 mile, 100k, and 50 mile distances under specific conditions, requiring a liability waiver and pacer bib.

Drop Bags:

Drop bags can be left at packet pickup or on race morning (by 6:15 AM) for manned aid stations. Bags must be clearly marked and will be returned to the Start/Finish area by Sunday noon.

Refund Policy:

No refunds or transfers. Deferrals to the following year are possible with at least 10 days' notice. Dropping down to a shorter distance is allowed without a refund; upgrading requires re-registration.

Volunteer:

Opportunities to volunteer are available. Contact [email protected].