The 16 Hour Lock-in
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
The 16 Hour Lock-In
The 16 Hour Lock-In is a timed endurance event at Carolina Beach State Park in North Carolina. Participants have 16 hours to complete a 4.5-mile loop as many times as they choose. The event is organized as a no DNF race so athletes of varying paces share the same course and support areas.
The course runs through a coastal maritime forest with groomed, wide and relatively flat trails. Each loop includes two hills of roughly 100 feet of climb and surfaces of dirt, sand, pine straw and roots, plus a short section of road where runners may choose grass beside the road. Each lap passes the Start/Finish area with access to personal gear, toilets, and a stocked aid station.
Aid station provisions include water, Tailwind, assorted salty and sweet snacks, and two hot meals provided during the day. Vegan and gluten free options are offered when requested in advance. The race is cup free; participants must bring a refillable hydration vessel. A headlamp or similar light is required for anyone running past 5:30pm. The State Park gate closes at 7pm; overnight stays inside the park require a registered campsite.
On-site group campsite space is limited to 30 paid 10x10 spots with primitive facilities and an overnight car pass. A nearby family campground is also available within about one mile. Awards include finisher patches for recognized distances and a buckle for 100 mile finishers. A waitlist, partial refund policy, volunteer incentives, and a multi-year club are part of the event policies. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
