2026 Leatherwood Marathons
The 2026 Leatherwood Marathons will take place on April 11, 2026, in Ferguson, North Carolina, USA, deep within the rugged Leatherwood Mountains. This event is hosted by Dirty Wolf Racing and offers a series of trail ultra races on private, remote trails that feature steep, rooty, and rocky terrain with no flat sections. Participants can expect a challenging and gritty experience, with elevation gains that range from 3,050 feet for the 25K to a staggering 24,400 feet for the 100-Miler. The weather in Ferguson on April 11 is expected to be mild, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 60°F and mostly cloudy conditions, though runners should be prepared for potential rain and uneven trail conditions.
What distances are available for this event?
- →25K – 1 loop – 3,050 ft gain
- →50K – 2 loops + out-and-back – 6,050 ft gain
- →50-Miler – 4 loops – 12,200 ft gain
- →100-Miler – 8 loops – 24,400 ft gain (more vertical than Everest from sea level)
What is the race day schedule?
- →Gates open: 7:00 AM
- →Bib pickup: 7:10–7:50 AM
- →Race start: 8:00 AM sharp
- →Course closes: 5:30 PM
- →100-Miler cutoff: 36 hours
What are the requirements and rules for participating?
- →100-Miler runners must have a pacer at dusk — mandatory for safety
- →No dogs, strollers, or unregistered runners
- →No refunds — race continues regardless of weather
- →Deferments available by request before race day
What aid stations are available during the race?
- →Three aid stations per loop:
• Alpha – Crew access allowed
• Wolf Fang – No crew access
• Omega – No crew access
- →Aid stations are stocked with water, Tailwind, soda, candy, bacon, fruit, pickles, salt, and basic first aid
What is included in the registration?
- →Handmade pottery finisher medal (no mass production)
- →Race swag for all participants
- →Results posted on UltraSignup
- →Photos released one week post-race
What accommodations are available near the event?
- →Leatherwood Mountains Cabins — 45+ rustic cabins, some with hot tubs
- →Creekside Campground — Tent & RV sites with water and power hookups
What is the course like?
- →Each loop follows orange ribbons and yellow arrows through the Leatherwood Mountains backcountry
- →The terrain features roots, rocks, and mud with constant climbing and descending — no flat reprieve at any point
- →The course repeats the same loop, which means navigation fatigue sets in on later laps
What is the weather forecast for the event date?
- →The weather in Ferguson on April 11, 2026, is expected to be mild, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 60°F and mostly cloudy conditions
- →Potential rain and uneven trail conditions are possible, so participants should prepare for variable weather
What are the cutoff times for the races?
- →100-Miler cutoff: 36 hours
- →Course closes: 5:30 PM
Are there any early packet pickup options?
- →Yes, early packet pickup is available on Friday before the event.