The 16 Hour Lock-in

Event overview

The 16 Hour Lock-In is a 16-hour timed event at Carolina Beach State Park in Carolina Beach, North Carolina on November 22–23, 2025. Participants run a 4.5-mile loop as many times as they choose within the 16-hour period. The event uses a no-DNF format so runners may stop after any lap. Registration closes November 19, 2025. Patches are awarded for finishing recognized race distances.

Course and logistics

The course runs through a coastal maritime forest with groomed, wide, relatively flat trails. Each loop includes two hills with about 100 feet of climb, and surfaces of dirt, sand, pine straw, roots, and a short road section (running off the road on grass is permitted). The start/finish area and group campsite provide access to personal gear, bathrooms, and an aid station that offers water, Tailwind, snacks, and two hot meals (a likely vegan option is attempted; bring special foods if needed). All racers must bring a refillable hydration vessel. Headlamp use is required for anyone running past 5:30 pm. Littering results in disqualification.

Camping options include thirty 10x10 spots at the group campsite (purchase required for a spot) and separate campground sites at Carolina Beach State Park located less than 1 mile from the course. Volunteers receive a race t-shirt and priority registration for the next year. A 75% refund is allowed for cancellations up to October 1.

Distances for patches: Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

• 13.1 miles
• 26.2 miles
• 50 km
• 50 miles
• 100 km

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