Merrill's Mile
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Event Overview
Merrill's Mile is an ultramarathon held at Camp Frank D. Merrill in Dahlonega, Georgia. The event offers timed races on a paved loop.
Course and Distances
The course is a 12-foot wide, paved loop certified by USA Track and Field as 0.9951 miles (approximately 0.9902 miles per lap). It has about 10 feet of elevation gain per loop. All runners change direction every six hours. The race options are:
- 6-hour
- 12-hour
- 24-hour
- 48-hour
Event Details
The event is scheduled for July 10-12, 2026. Start times are at 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM on Friday and Saturday, depending on the chosen race duration. Packet pickup occurs one hour prior to each race start at the camp. A government-issued photo ID is required for entry onto the military installation and to pick up a race packet.
On-Site Information
One fully stocked aid station is located at the start/finish line, offering water, sports drink, and typical race foods. Portable restrooms are available along the course. Crew support is allowed, and crews can set up in the grass infield. There is no power, and cell phone service is poor (only Verizon reportedly works). Runners can camp on the track infield starting Thursday night from 4:00 PM.
Rules and Requirements
Headlamps are required for all runners participating overnight, as the course has no lighting. No pacers are allowed, though limited guest bibs are available for friends/family to run a lap or two. Only full laps completed within the time limit are counted towards the official distance. Race bibs and timing chips must be worn and visible at all times. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
