The 2026 Whitewalker Ultra 100K takes place on January 17, 2026, in Palmyra, United States, utilizing the W830 Little Prairie Rd address for the Emma Carlin Campground hub. Runners will navigate the Ice Age Trail through the Southern Kettle Moraine Forest, a landscape typically experiencing mid-winter conditions with average January highs around 26°F (-3°C) and lows near 12°F (-11°C), often accompanied by snow or ice. The event challenges participants to complete a 62.1-mile course consisting of two distinct loops, requiring self-reliance and endurance in a remote, rugged environment.
Event Format and Course Structure
What is the race format and course structure?
→The event consists of two loops totaling 100k (62.1 miles)
→Loop 1 is 36 miles: Emma Carlin → west on Ice Age Trail → Whitewater turnaround → Emma Carlin
→Loop 2 is 26.1 miles: Emma Carlin → Scuppernong Trails turnaround → Emma Carlin
→The start and finish line is located at Emma Carlin Campground
What are the start times and time limits?
→Start Time: 10:00 AM on January 17, 2026
→Time Limit: 24 hours to complete both loops
→Cutoff: 10:00 AM on January 18, 2026
Where is the event located?
→Location: W830 Little Prairie Rd, Palmyra, WI 53153
→Trail System: Ice Age Trail, Southern Kettle Moraine Forest
→Venue: Emma Carlin Campground (Start/Finish)
Race Rules and Safety
What are the mandatory safety gear requirements?
→Emergency blanket
→First aid kit
→Fire starter or lighter
→Flashlight or headlamp
→Attached light visible at all times
What are the rules regarding support and crew?
→No outside crew support is allowed
→No pacers are permitted
→Only aid stations provide support
→Spectators are welcome but cannot provide outside support
What are the trail etiquette and environmental rules?
→Mostly single-pass trails requiring yield to faster runners and oncoming traffic
→Leave no trace policy is enforced
→No littering
→Violation of any rule results in immediate disqualification
Aid Stations and Course Milestones
What aid stations are available on the course?
→HWY 12: Located at miles 14.1 & 22.3 (between Duffin Rd and Sweno Rd); Services: Water, portable toilet
→Whitewater (Turnaround): Located at mile 18.2 (Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive); Services: Water, bathroom
→Emma Carlin: Located at miles 36.4 & 64 (Start/Finish); Services: Water, bathroom, bag drop
→HWY 67: Located at miles 45.1 & 54.8 (between County Rd X and Stark Rd); Services: Water only
→Scuppernong (Turnaround): Located at miles 47.7 & 53.1 (on HWY ZZ); Services: Water, bathroom
What are the key course milestones?
→Mile 14.1: HWY 12 aid station
→Mile 18.2: Whitewater turnaround (Loop 1)
→Mile 22.3: HWY 12 aid station
→Mile 36.4: Emma Carlin (halfway point)
→Mile 45.1: HWY 67 aid station
→Mile 47.7: Scuppernong turnaround (Loop 2)
→Mile 53.1: Scuppernong aid station
→Mile 54.8: HWY 67 aid station
→Mile 64: Emma Carlin finish line
Awards and Discounts
What is the finisher award?
→Frozen Dagger with engraved plaque for all who complete both loops within 24 hours
Are there any registration discounts available?
→Military Discount: Code TYforyourservice on Runsignup
Participant Experience
What experience level is required for this event?
→Challenge Level: One of the toughest ultra races in the Midwest
→Designed for experienced ultra runners only
→Focus on self-reliance with no crew or pacers
→Mental and physical endurance test in extreme conditions
What amenities are available for participants?
→Bag drop available at Emma Carlin (miles 36.4 & 64)
