Lake Travis New Year's Trail Challenge with Ruck options- 50K | 25K | 1/2 Marathon | Last Runner Standing | 5K Run/Walk | Kids 1K

🏃‍♂️ NEW YEAR'S ULTRA CELEBRATION

🌄 Event Overview

• Date: January 1, 2026
• Location: 16900 Cherry Ln, Lago Vista, TX
• Event URL: Race Information
• Race Options: 50K, 25K, 1/2 Marathon, Last Runner Standing, 5K Run/Walk, Kids 1K

🥳 A CELEBRATION OF RUNNING

Ring in the new year with vigor and community spirit at this celebratory running event at Arkansas Bend Park! Challenge yourself with an ultramarathon or another race distance against the beautiful backdrop of the crystal-clear waters of the Colorado River. This event features six race options and caters to both seasoned ultrarunners and first-timers with generous cutoff times for all distances.

🏔️ 50K ULTRAMARATHON

Race Details

Join us for an exhilarating race day where you'll not only challenge your limits but also enjoy a dynamic and ever-changing course layout! The welcoming environment encourages participants of all paces and fitness levels to take on their next running challenge. Adventure awaits on these scenic sun-bleached limestone bluffs and verdant courses.

• Distance: 31.1 miles (looped course design on trails and along the river)
• Cutoff Time: 10 hours
• Loop Distance: 7.183 miles
• Elevation: 512 ft gain / 531 ft loss per loop

Need help planning your race strategy? Visit fitfoundation.org/new-year-trail-challenge for our interactive pace calculator and find the perfect pace for your New Year's Day adventure!

🌲 25K TRAIL RUN

Race Details

For those seeking a shorter yet challenging distance, kick off your new year with an epic trail ultrarunning experience that takes you through varied natural scenery! Enjoy a 15.5-mile looped journey through the most scenic areas of Arkansas Bend Park.

• Distance: 15.5 miles
• Cutoff Time: 7 hours
• Terrain: Varied natural scenery and trails
• Note: Running/hiking poles are recommended

🏅 HALF MARATHON OPTIONS

Standard Half Marathon (13.1 miles)

The looped course winds through picturesque areas, highlighting river views and gentle inclines, suitable for both new and experienced runners.

• Distance: 13.1 miles
• Cutoff Time: 5 hours
• Terrain: Mix of trail and scenic riverside paths

Half Marathon Ruck Division (13.1 miles)

This division is tailored to individuals looking for a unique challenge that tests endurance, strength, and resilience, providing an alternative to traditional running.

• Weight Requirements: 20 lbs minimum (under 150 lb participants) / 30 lbs minimum (over 150 lb participants)
• Verification: Weights checked at start and finish
• Cutoff Time: 5 hours
• Course: Same scenic half-marathon route

⏳ LAST RUNNER STANDING ULTRA

Event Format

Every hour on the hour, runners tackle a scenic 4.2-mile out-and-back loop along Lake Travis. The challenge? Keep going until you can't complete the loop within the hour – or until you're the last one standing.

Victory Conditions

• Complete one final loop after all other runners have finished
• Continue running past 6:30 PM to validate your victory
• Be the fastest final runner remaining across all race distances

Perfect For

• Experienced ultra-runners seeking a new format to test their limits
• Marathon runners ready to step up to ultra distances
• Strategic runners who excel at pacing and mental endurance

Challenge Details

• Loop Distance: 4.2 miles
• Format: One loop per hour
• Duration: 10-hour endurance challenge
• Terrain: Gravel trails with lakeside views

Each loop brings new challenges and achievements, building toward an unforgettable day of personal accomplishment. Register now to discover what you're truly capable of, one hour at a time.

🌟 TRAIL 5K: RUN OR RUCK

Start Your Year on the Right Foot

Kick off your New Year with an invigorating trail run through scenic natural terrain. This 5K adventure combines the energy of a fresh start with the serenity of nature, making it the perfect way to launch your New Year's fitness journey.

Begin your year immersed in nature as you wind through wooded trails, taking in breathtaking vistas. Our well-marked 5K course features natural terrain, offering both challenge and inspiration for runners and hikers of all levels.

• Option: Complete as a run or ruck (weighted backpack) - your choice!