2026 David's Trail Endurance Run

The 2026 David's Trail Endurance Run is scheduled for Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Rocking Chair Resort in Mountain Home, Arkansas. This winter trail race traverses the rugged David's Trail network through the Ozark Mountains along Lake Norfork, featuring technical singletrack, rocky ridgelines, and significant elevation gain. Participants should prepare for extreme weather variability typical of the region in January, which can range from snow and ice to unseasonable warmth, requiring comprehensive gear preparation for variable conditions.

What distances are available for this event?

• →50K race starting at 8:00 AM CST (31 miles, 9-hour cutoff)
• →25K race starting at 9:00 AM CST (15.5 miles)
• →7K race starting at 10:00 AM CST (4.3 miles)

How much does registration cost?

• →50K: $100
• →25K: $80
• →7K: $55
• →Prices increase after January 22, 2026 at 11:59 PM CST

Is this a trail run?

Yes, this is a true mountain trail race. The event takes place entirely on David's Trail, a rugged network of singletrack and doubletrack paths through the Ozark Mountains along Lake Norfork in Arkansas. The terrain includes technical singletrack, rocky ridgelines, muddy sections, and exposed lakefront trails.

What are the elevation gains for each distance?

• →50K: 5,000+ feet of elevation gain
• →25K: 2,500+ feet of elevation gain
• →The course features steep climbs, rocky descents, and remote forested terrain

What are the cutoff times for the 50K?

• →Mile 18.25 (turnaround): 1:00 PM
• →Mile 26.25 (Panther Bay Pavilion): 3:30 PM
• →Finish (Mile 31.75): 5:00 PM
• →Runners missing cutoffs will be pulled from the course

What is the event format regarding hydration?

This is a cupless event sponsored by HydraPak. Aid stations are fully stocked but no disposable cups are provided. Participants must carry their own bottle, hydration vest, or reusable cup. HydraPak Speed Cups are available for purchase at the race site.

What is the weather variability for this event?

The event is known for extreme weather variability in January, ranging from blizzards to 70°F sunshine. The Ozarks can bring snow, ice, rain, or unseasonable warmth. Participants should pack for anything and prepare for variable conditions.

What awards and prizes are offered?

• →Prizes for top finishers
• →No cash purse for 50K in 2026 due to course redesign
• →Course record bonuses may return in future years
• →The 50K course was redesigned in 2022, so 2026 records are still TBD

What post-race amenities are provided?

• →Hot food and drinks at the finish (participants must bring their own plate/cup)
• →Post-race festivities at Rocking Chair Resort
• →Self-sufficiency is expected due to remote terrain

What are the cutoff times for the 50K?

• →Mile 18.25 (turnaround): 1:00 PM
• →Mile 26.25 (Panther Bay Pavilion): 3:30 PM
• →Finish (Mile 31.75): 5:00 PM
• →Runners missing cutoffs will be pulled from the course

What are the start times for packet pickup?

• →Friday, January 23: 5:00–7:00 PM at Rocking Chair Resort
• →Saturday, January 24: 6:30–9:45 AM at Rocking Chair Resort

Where does the race start and finish?

All races start and finish at Rocking Chair Resort, which also serves as the hub for lodging, packet pickup, and post-race festivities. The course takes place at Robinson Point, Panther Bay, and Bidwell Parks along David's Trail.

What is the course terrain like?

The terrain includes technical singletrack, rocky ridgelines, muddy sections, and exposed lakefront trails. The 50K course was redesigned in 2022, and the network is widely regarded as one of the toughest 50Ks in the region.

What are the lodging options?

• →Rocking Chair Resort (host resort) - on-site cabins to full houses, likely to sell out
• →Wagon Wheel Resort (Gamaliel, AR) - reliable backup option
• →Lake Norfork Inn - currently unreliable and not recommended

What self-sufficiency is expected from runners?

Remote, mountainous terrain with limited access for support crews. Participants should bring layers, emergency gear, and nutrition for variable conditions. The event emphasizes self-sufficiency throughout.