Moonlight On Mt Ascension Trail Run
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Moonlight on Mt. Ascension - 12 Hour Night Trail Run
Moonlight on Mt. Ascension is a 12 hour night trail run on Helena’s South Hills trails near Mount Ascension and Rodney Ridge. The course is a modified figure 8 made entirely of singletrack and is staged from the Old Shooting Range Trailhead in Davis Gulch, Helena, Montana. The event is limited to 75 runners and is organized by the nonprofit HURL with volunteer support.
Each figure 8 loop covers 11.57 miles and about 2,645 feet of elevation gain. The course is composed of two linked loops:
- Figure 8 loop: 11.57 miles, 2,645 feet gain.
- Mt. Ascension loop: 7.5 miles, 1,630 feet gain/loss.
- Rodney Ridge loop: 4.0 miles, 1,015 feet gain/loss.
Runners have 12 hours to cover as many complete figure 8 loops as possible. Runners must complete the Mt. Ascension loop clockwise and the Rodney Ridge loop counterclockwise for each full figure 8. One complete figure 8 is required to be an official finisher; mileage for partial loops is credited only under specified conditions after the first full lap.
The course will be marked with ribbons, signs, reflective tape, and glow sticks. An aid station at the Old Shooting Range Trailhead will offer food, drinks, and hot beverages. Wildlife such as deer, black bear, and mountain lion have been seen on these trails. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
