Summary
The Mammoth Cave Ultra Marathon is a captivating trail race that takes runners on a journey through the stunning Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky. This event offers both a 50K and 25K distance, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty and challenge their endurance on the winding trails. With a unique course map, COVID-19 precautions, and strict cutoff times, the Mammoth Cave Ultra Marathon promises an unforgettable running experience for cavern touring enthusiasts.
Course Map: Navigating the Winding Trails
The Mammoth Cave 50K/25K trail race course is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts. The 8-mile out-and-back route, which can be found on AllTrails, takes runners through the heart of Mammoth Cave National Park, showcasing the park’s stunning natural landscapes. The 50K runners will complete the course twice, while the 25K runners will tackle it once, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for runners of all levels.
COVID-19 Precautions: Prioritizing Safety
In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Mammoth Cave Ultra Marathon organizers have implemented a range of safety measures to protect the well-being of all participants. These precautions may include:
- Social distancing protocols
- Mandatory mask-wearing in designated areas
- Enhanced sanitization of high-touch surfaces
- Adjustments to aid station procedures
The organizers will closely monitor the evolving COVID-19 situation and adhere to the latest CDC guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable event for all.
Cutoff Times: Challenging the Clock
The Mammoth Cave Ultra Marathon has strict cutoff times in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants. The hard cutoff time for both the 50K and 25K distances is 8 hours. This means that all runners must complete their respective distances within this time frame.
Additional Details
Date and Time
The Mammoth Cave Ultra Marathon will take place on Saturday, October 26, 2024, with the race starting at 7:00 AM (Central) for both the 50K and 25K distances.
Location
The race starts and finishes at the Bell’s Tavern Pavilion in Park City, Kentucky, within the boundaries of Mammoth Cave National Park.
Registration
Registration for the Mammoth Cave Ultra Marathon is capped at 150 runners, with the possibility of increasing pending permit approval. Early registration prices are $85 for the 50K and $65 for the 25K, increasing to $95 and $75 respectively on April 16th, and further to $105 and $85 on September 1st.
Aid Stations
Runners must provide their own collapsible cups, bottles, or hydration packs for refill at the aid stations located along the course.
Lodging and Camping
Participants can find information on lodging options within Mammoth Cave National Park at the National Park Service website. Camping reservations are also available through the National Park Service.
The Mammoth Cave Ultra Marathon offers a truly unique and challenging running experience for cavern touring enthusiasts. With its stunning course, COVID-19 precautions, and strict cutoff times, this event promises an unforgettable adventure for runners of all abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned ultrarunner or a trail running enthusiast, the Mammoth Cave Ultra Marathon is an event you won’t want to miss.