Spirit Of Syllamo
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Spirit of Syllamo
Spirit of Syllamo and the Quirky Turkey are ultra endurance trail races held in the Sylamore Ranger District of the Ozark St. Francis National Forest near Norfork, Arkansas. The event date is December 12, 2026. Distances offered:
- 100 Mile
- 38 Mile (Quirky Turkey)
The 100 Mile course includes about 31 miles of the Ozark Highlands Trail plus sections of the North Sylamore Creek Trail. The 38 Mile course includes about 18 miles of the Ozark Highlands Trail. Terrain is varied single and double track through dense forest, with rocky, steep and frequently short punchy hills. Expect device-recorded averages near 175 feet of elevation gain per mile and sections that feel like 200+ feet of gain per mile. The route begins around 390 feet above sea level and reaches approximately 1,500 feet at the highest point.
Courses are marked primarily with ribbons tied to branches; problem turns receive arrows and large ground signs. Organizers advise using GPX navigation for those who are prone to missing turns. There are dozens of creek crossings that are usually passable without getting feet wet; the 100 Mile has three larger crossings that may be wet in higher water.
The primary venue is Misty Mornings Arkansas Cabins and RV Sites in Norfork, with onsite camping, cabins and RV spots. Packet pickup is available at Norfork Adventure Supply or on race morning; drop bags and bibs are distributed on race morning. Drop bags must be carry-on size, labeled, and may be transported to multiple locations before being returned to Misty Mornings.
Aid stations include several named locations along the course and provide electrolyte mix, ginger ale, Coca-Cola, water, occasional gels, and a variety of solid and cooked foods. Basic first aid is available at every aid station; NSAIDs and other pain relievers are not supplied. Cutoffs are published for each distance with the 38 Mile cutoff at 12.5 hours and the 100 Mile cutoff at 34 hours. The 100 Mile event includes additional crew and pacer provisions and a separate crew packet with instructions.
Finishers receive laser engraved awards: a belt buckle and plaque for 100 Mile finishers, a laser engraved coaster for 38 Mile finishers, and overall engraved plaques for top finishers. Age categories include Masters (40 to 59) and Grandmasters (60+). Historical finish rates for the 100 Mile have ranged from 25.0% to 63.6% in recent years. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
