Lost in the Woods - Nicollet
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Lost In The Woods
Lost In The Woods is an off-trail endurance event held in Nicollet, Minnesota. The race takes place entirely within the Swan Lake Wildlife Management Area - North Star Unit. Inspired by the format of the Barkley Marathons, this event emphasizes navigation and self-sufficiency rather than traditional trail running.
The course is primarily off-trail or follows deer trails, featuring terrain with downed trees, tall grass, rocks, and thick underbrush including stinging nettles and thorns. Participants must cross a creek twice during each loop. The course is not marked, and runners are required to use a map and compass to navigate the terrain.
The event structure consists of multiple loops:
- 25 Miler: Five loops of 5 miles each, with specific time cutoffs for each lap.
Participants receive a map and course directions the day before the event. To prove they have followed the prescribed route, runners must locate hidden books in the woods and tear out the page corresponding to their bib number. A successful finish requires completing five loops under the time cutoff with all required pages collected. Each loop has a net elevation gain of zero feet. Due to the nature of the vegetation, the use of long pants and shirts is recommended. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
