The Ultra Bird Trail Races & RUCK Challenge
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The Ultra Bird Trail Races & RUCK Challenge
The Ultra Bird event takes place in Pigeon Creek County Park in West Olive, Michigan on Saturday, October 10, 2026. It combines looped trail running and a separate ruck challenge to raise funds for the Egress Endurance Project, a nonprofit that supports people in recovery through outdoor movement, structured endurance challenges, and community.
Races use a roughly 5K loop of rolling, wooded trails with notable fall color and about 165 feet of elevation gain per loop. The looped format provides frequent aid station access and convenient crew or spectator viewing. The event layout places the start and finish at the Pigeon Creek Ski Lodge.
Distances and formats:
- 12 Hour trail event
- 6 Hour trail event
- 10K
- 5K
- 12 Hour Ruck
- 6 Hour Ruck
- 3 Hour Ruck
Race services include on-site parking within walking distance, an aid station at the start/finish, a drop-bag area, hydration and pre-packaged snacks, and lodge bathrooms. Pacers are allowed for the 12 and 6 hour timed events. Timed races permit participants to stop at any time; a final-loop rule allows one last loop only if it is started at or before 15 minutes before the event end. Ruck participants self-report carried weight and are encouraged to carry approximately 10 to 20 pounds; ruck finishers receive a patch and a finisher medal.
The park remains open to the public during the event and trails will be marked with signage. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
