Black River Trail Classic 2026

The Black River Trail Classic is a fall trail race held on Smrekar Road in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, offering 10K, 25K, 50K, and 85K distances. All courses are on unpaved trails, making it a true dirt-and-woods event, distinct from road races with brief trail segments. The race began in 2017, and its entry fees are reasonably priced for trail ultras, with early registration at $65 and late registration at $85. The long course is designed to be point-to-point, avoiding out-and-backs and repeated sections while remaining within the local trail system. The initial portion is characterized as smooth and runnable, transitioning to a hillier second half featuring ridge views and autumn foliage. Participants receive handcrafted wooden medals, and all registered runners get a Black River Trail Classic beanie. Those completing the 85K distance accumulate a collection of sweatshirts and patches, earning one of each for their first finish and an additional patch for subsequent finishes. The post-race atmosphere is understated and functional, providing hot food, pies, and chapstick.