Rumble on the Ridge

MAY
16
2026
Rumble on the Ridge is a backyard ultra held on a private farm near Madison. Runners tackle a secret 1+ mile loop every 20 minutes until only one remains. The event supports the creation of a new local trail network.
Sat 16 May 2026
The Drifty Mile Loop

Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.

Event Format

Rumble on the Ridge is a last-person-standing running event in the format of a backyard ultra. The event is held on a private dairy farm in Arena, Wisconsin, about 40 minutes west of Madison. Participation is capped at 75 runners.

Course

Runners compete on a looped course called "The Drifty Mile." The route changes every year and is not published before race day. Each loop is between 1.0 and 1.25 miles long with at least 250 feet of elevation gain. Runners must complete one loop every 20 minutes. The direction of the loop reverses every 4 hours.

Event Progression and Winner

The event continues until only one runner completes a loop within the 20-minute time limit. That runner must complete a final solo lap to be declared the winner. The winner receives free entry into the next year's event and a unique award.

Basecamp and Facilities

The main area, called The Barnyard, serves as the basecamp. It contains the start corral, an aid station, portable restrooms, and space for crew tents. Space is available for up to 35 crew tents, which must be reserved during registration. A shared participant tent is available for runners without a crew. The aid station provides fruit, snacks, hot food, hydration products, soda, and coffee. Spectator viewing, campfires, and yard games are also located here.

Camping

Tent or small camper van camping is allowed on site for Saturday night only. No RVs or trailers are permitted, as there are no hookups. Several state parks and campgrounds are listed as alternatives within a 20-minute drive.

Charity

The organizer, Driftless Endurance, along with participant donations, will donate $0.10 for every lap completed to support the planning and building of the Driftless Trail, a planned 50-mile foot-trail loop connecting three state parks. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

The Drifty Mile Loop