Bear Lake Ultra
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Event overview
The Bear Lake Ultra is a 24-hour timed event held Saturday, October 3 to Sunday, October 4, 2026, at Bear Lake Camp in Lapeer, MI (3409 5 Lakes Rd, 48446). The event is open to ages 18 and older. All profits are donated to Lions Bear Lake Blind Camp (a 501c3); the event reports having raised over $66,000 for the camp in eight years.
Course
Runners complete repeated loops of a course through the camp. Each loop is 3.1 miles and includes rolling hills, single-track trails, wider trails, some grass sections, and a few bridge crossings. Participants may stop and resume on the course during the 24-hour period; partial loops are not counted toward 100-mile awards.
Logistics and registration
The event is a chipped, cupless race. Registration is listed at $99, with an early-registration note of $96 plus the drop-off of one clothing item (gloves, mittens, hat, or scarf) at packet pickup. Included items noted for timely registration are a hooded sweatshirt and a mystery gift; registration also includes Friday night dinner at packet pickup and weekend tent camping (no RVs or campers). The aid station at the start/finish is fully stocked with a wide variety of food, and heated indoor bathrooms with showers are available. Pacers are allowed after 50 miles or after dark. Awards include a custom pint glass for the top male and female by most completed loops and a belt buckle for runners completing 100 miles or more. No refunds, deferrals, transfers, or virtual options are offered. Extras include a used gear swap and collection of used eyeglasses and race medals for charity. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
