American Bottoms 100
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Event Overview
The American Bottoms 100 is a road ultramarathon located in the historic American Bottom region of Illinois, following the Mississippi River. The event headquarters is situated in Columbia, Illinois, just outside of St. Louis, Missouri. The course primarily utilizes levees and backroads, passing through various historic locations such as Piggott's Fort, Fort de Chartres, and the town of Prairie du Rocher.
Participants follow a route that loosely aligns with the American Discovery Trail and the Kaskaskia-Cahokia Trail. The terrain features a mix of surfaces and a flat profile, intended for runners seeking a fast course or a low-elevation experience.
Distances and Course Details
Participants can choose between two primary distances:
- 110 Mile: An out and back course with 1,400 feet of total elevation gain.
- 55 Mile: A point to point course with 700 feet of total elevation gain.
Both distances feature a surface composition of 51% pavement and 49% gravel. The 110 mile option includes 17 aid stations and a 34-hour cutoff time. The 55 mile option provides 8 aid stations and a 15-hour cutoff time. The event is characterized as a straightforward ultra with a focus on the natural scenery of the Illinois bluffs and the confluence of the Kaskaskia and Mississippi Rivers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
