Best For: Grit-focused trail runners who prefer rugged singletrack over manicured park paths.
Course Character: Hilly and relentless; expect constant vertical oscillation.
Logistics Score: ⭐⭐⭐ (Getting to Dover is easy via Cleveland or Akron, but you'll want a car to navigate the local area.)
Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Solid perks including local craft beer and a rugged course for a reasonable price.)
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This isn't a race for those looking to clock a personal best on a scenic stroll. It is a punchy, elevation-heavy affair that uses a figure-8 layout to keep you looping through the same tough terrain. If you want to test your climbing legs and your ability to manage gear in a cupless environment, this is your playground.
Tuscazoar Raw 2026 takes place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Dover, Ohio, USA. You can choose from 25K, 50K, or 100K distances. It is a quintessential midwestern trail experience: technical, hilly, and unapologetically raw.
How punishing is the terrain?
Don't let the "packed gravel" mention fool you into thinking this is easy; that's only 1.5 miles of the course. The rest is predominantly singletrack. For the 100K distance, you are looking at roughly 10,500 feet of elevation gain. The course uses a funky figure-8 design consisting of a 19-mile loop and a 12-mile loop. This means you'll be seeing the same sections multiple times—which is great for crew access but can be a mental grind when your legs are heavy.
What should I expect regarding weather and gear?
Late June in Ohio can be a fickle beast. You might start in the cool, damp 50s (°F) at 4:30 AM, but by midday, the humidity can spike and temperatures can climb into the high 70s or 80s. Because this is a cupless race, do not show up without a reliable hydration vest and a collapsible cup. You will need both to manage electrolytes and hydration at the aid stations.
Where can I crash before the start?
If you want the full experience, book a spot on-site at the camp via Tuscazoar ↗—they have everything from RV sites to rustic cabins. If you prefer something more civilized, the historic town of Zoar has several B&Bs like The Cobbler Shop or Cider Mill. Note that while the camp is convenient, you’ll want to be settled in early to handle the 4:30 AM start.
What are the survival essentials for race day?
The organization is solid, but you need to be self-sufficient. There are eight aid stations, but they aren't all created equal. Some are "water only" (like Mile 5.4 and Mile 12), so you must carry enough calories and electrolytes to bridge the gaps between the "full" stations. Also, note that pacers are strictly prohibited—you are on your own out there. The 20-hour cutoff is generous for most, but keep an eye on the clock if you're tackling the 100K.
What do I get for finishing?
The rewards are straightforward and unpretentious. Every finisher gets a race shirt and a medal. More importantly for the post-race recovery, you get a beer ticket for Lockport Brewery. It’s a nice touch that acknowledges the effort you just put in.
