Lake Travis New Year's Trail Challenge with Ruck options- 50K | 25K | 1/2 Marathon | 24 Hour Race /Last Runner Standing | 5K Run/Walk | Kids 1K
- Date Thu 1st January 2026 - Fri 2nd January 2026
- Time 8:30AM CST
- Location Lago Vista, Texas
- Price $11.60 - $106.99
- Races 9 races
- Distances Ultra, 5km, Half Marathon, 1km
Event summary
Join us for the exhilarating Lake Travis New Year's Trail Challenge on January 1-2, 2026, at the picturesque Arkansas Bend Park in Leander, Texas! This exciting outdoor event is the perfect way to ring in the new year while challenging yourself with an array of race options, including a 50K ultramarathon, 25K trail run, half marathon, 5K run/walk, and even a unique Last Runner Standing race format.
Embark on a stunning adventure with breathtaking views of the crystal-clear Colorado River and the captivating limestone bluffs. Whether you're a seasoned ultrarunner or a newcomer, there’s something for everyone with generous cutoff times and diverse terrains to enjoy. From the scenic 31.1-mile ultra to the family-friendly Kids 1K, each race promises camaraderie, personal achievement, and the thrill of the great outdoors. Don't miss out on this vibrant celebration of running—register now and start your year off on the right foot!
Embark on a stunning adventure with breathtaking views of the crystal-clear Colorado River and the captivating limestone bluffs. Whether you're a seasoned ultrarunner or a newcomer, there’s something for everyone with generous cutoff times and diverse terrains to enjoy. From the scenic 31.1-mile ultra to the family-friendly Kids 1K, each race promises camaraderie, personal achievement, and the thrill of the great outdoors. Don't miss out on this vibrant celebration of running—register now and start your year off on the right foot!
Organiser's Description
NEW YEAR'S ULTRA CELEBRATION
RING IN THE NEW YEAR ON THE TRAILS OF ARKANSAS BEND PARK
50K ULTRA
25K TRAIL
HALF MARATHON
HALF RUCK
LAST RUNNER STANDING + 24 HOUR ENDURANCE CHALLENGE
5K TRAIL
Challenge yourself with crystal-clear Colorado River views and limestone bluff trails
A CELEBRATION OF RUNNING
Ring in the new year with vigor and community spirit at this celebratory running event at Arkansas Bend Park! Challenge yourself with an ultramarathon or another race distance against the beautiful backdrop of the crystal-clear waters of the Colorado River. This event features six race options and caters to both seasoned ultrarunners and first-timers with generous cutoff times for all distances.
50K ULTRAMARATHON
RACE DETAILS
Join us for an exhilarating race day where you'll not only challenge your limits but also enjoy a dynamic and ever-changing course layout! The welcoming environment encourages participants of all paces and fitness levels to take on their next running challenge. Adventure awaits on these scenic sun-bleached limestone bluffs and verdant courses.
* DISTANCE: 31.1 miles (looped course design on trails and along the river)
* CUTOFF TIME: 10 hours
* LOOP DISTANCE: 7.183 miles
* ELEVATION: 512 ft gain / 531 ft loss per loop
Need help planning your race strategy? Visit fitfoundation.org/new-year-trail-challenge [https://fitfoundation.org/new-year-trail-challenge] for our interactive pace calculator and find the perfect pace for your New Year's Day adventure!
25K TRAIL RUN
RACE DETAILS
For those seeking a shorter yet challenging distance, kick off your new year with an epic trail ultrarunning experience that takes you through varied natural scenery! Enjoy a 15.5-mile looped journey through the most scenic areas of Arkansas Bend Park.
* DISTANCE: 15.5 miles
* CUTOFF TIME: 7 hours
* TERRAIN: Varied natural scenery and trails
* NOTE: Running/hiking poles are recommended
HALF MARATHON OPTIONS
R
STANDARD HALF MARATHON (13.1 MILES)
The looped course winds through picturesque areas, highlighting river views and gentle inclines, suitable for both new and experienced runners.
* DISTANCE: 13.1 miles
* CUTOFF TIME: 5 hours
* TERRAIN: Mix of trail and scenic riverside paths
R
HALF MARATHON RUCK DIVISION (13.1 MILES)
This division is tailored to individuals looking for a unique challenge that tests endurance, strength, and resilience, providing an alternative to traditional running.
* WEIGHT REQUIREMENTS: 20 lbs minimum (under 150 lb participants) / 30 lbs minimum (over 150 lb participants)
* VERIFICATION: Weights checked at start and finish
* CUTOFF TIME: 5 hours
* COURSE: Same scenic half-marathon route
LAST RUNNER STANDING ULTRA
Push your limits in this unique ultra-running event combining strategic pacing with endurance against the stunning backdrop of Lake Travis. Experience the thrill of a format that rewards both physical stamina and tactical intelligence.
EVENT FORMAT
Every hour on the hour, runners tackle a scenic 4.2-mile out-and-back loop along Lake Travis. The challenge? Keep going until you can't complete the loop within the hour or until you're the last one standing. If two or more runners complete the final lap (24th hour), the winner is determined by the fastest time on the 24th lap.
VICTORY CONDITIONS
To be crowned the overall winner, you must:
* Complete one final loop after all other runners have finished
* Continue running past 6:30 PM to validate your victory
* Be the fastest final runner remaining across all race distances, i.e. if more than one runner remains at the 10 hour OR 24 hour mark. The remaining runners will compete for the fastest last runner standing position.
PERFECT FOR
* Experienced ultra-runners seeking a new format to test their limits
* Marathon runners ready to step up to ultra distances
* Strategic runners who excel at pacing and mental endurance
CHALLENGE DETAILS
* LOOP DISTANCE: 4.2 miles
* FORMAT: One loop per hour
* DURATION: 24-hour endurance challenge
* TERRAIN: Gravel trails with lakeside views
Each loop brings new challenges and achievements, building toward an unforgettable day of personal accomplishment. Register now to discover what you're truly capable of, one hour at a time.
24-HOUR ENDURANCE CHALLENGE
Go the Distance on Your Terms
Not interested in the competitive Last Runner Standing format but still want to test your endurance? Our 24-Hour Endurance Challenge allows you to set your own pace and distance goals while enjoying the same beautiful course along Lake Travis.
Event Format
Participants follow the same 4.2-mile loop as the Last Runner Standing competitors but without the hourly time constraints. Start when you're ready and complete as many loops as possible within the 24-hour period. Take breaks when needed and run entirely on your schedule.
Perfect For:
* Ultra runners seeking a personal distance challenge
* Endurance athletes looking to set new personal records
* Those who prefer a self-paced format without elimination
* Runners transitioning from shorter ultras to longer time-based events
Challenge Details:
* Loop Distance: 4.2 miles
* Duration: Full 24-hour access to the course
* Support: Full aid station access throughout the event
* Tracking: Individual lap counting and total distance tracking
All 24-Hour Endurance Challenge participants who complete at least 50 miles receive a special achievement medal in addition to the standard finisher medal.
Set your own goals, find your rhythm, and discover just how far you can go in 24 hours on the beautiful trails of Arkansas Bend Park.
TRAIL 5K: RUN OR RUCK
START YOUR YEAR ON THE RIGHT FOOT
Kick off your New Year with an invigorating trail run through scenic natural terrain. This 5K adventure combines the energy of a fresh start with the serenity of nature, making it the perfect way to launch your New Year's fitness journey.
Begin your year immersed in nature as you wind through wooded trails, taking in breathtaking vistas. Our well-marked 5K course features natural terrain, offering both challenge and inspiration for runners and hikers of all levels.
OPTION: Complete as a run or ruck (weighted backpack) - your choice!
VIEW COURSE MAPS [https://d2mkojm4rk40ta.cloudfront.net/us-east-1-src/prod/clientUploads/2024-12/16/1/164933/b82a038f-037a-4c01-9e46-a77188957298-bNx7Sq.png]
RING IN THE NEW YEAR ON THE TRAILS
Challenge yourself in the beauty of Arkansas Bend Park - choose your distance and start your year with an achievement!
REGISTER NOW
RING IN THE NEW YEAR ON THE TRAILS OF ARKANSAS BEND PARK
50K ULTRA
25K TRAIL
HALF MARATHON
HALF RUCK
LAST RUNNER STANDING + 24 HOUR ENDURANCE CHALLENGE
5K TRAIL
Challenge yourself with crystal-clear Colorado River views and limestone bluff trails
A CELEBRATION OF RUNNING
Ring in the new year with vigor and community spirit at this celebratory running event at Arkansas Bend Park! Challenge yourself with an ultramarathon or another race distance against the beautiful backdrop of the crystal-clear waters of the Colorado River. This event features six race options and caters to both seasoned ultrarunners and first-timers with generous cutoff times for all distances.
50K ULTRAMARATHON
RACE DETAILS
Join us for an exhilarating race day where you'll not only challenge your limits but also enjoy a dynamic and ever-changing course layout! The welcoming environment encourages participants of all paces and fitness levels to take on their next running challenge. Adventure awaits on these scenic sun-bleached limestone bluffs and verdant courses.
* DISTANCE: 31.1 miles (looped course design on trails and along the river)
* CUTOFF TIME: 10 hours
* LOOP DISTANCE: 7.183 miles
* ELEVATION: 512 ft gain / 531 ft loss per loop
Need help planning your race strategy? Visit fitfoundation.org/new-year-trail-challenge [https://fitfoundation.org/new-year-trail-challenge] for our interactive pace calculator and find the perfect pace for your New Year's Day adventure!
25K TRAIL RUN
RACE DETAILS
For those seeking a shorter yet challenging distance, kick off your new year with an epic trail ultrarunning experience that takes you through varied natural scenery! Enjoy a 15.5-mile looped journey through the most scenic areas of Arkansas Bend Park.
* DISTANCE: 15.5 miles
* CUTOFF TIME: 7 hours
* TERRAIN: Varied natural scenery and trails
* NOTE: Running/hiking poles are recommended
HALF MARATHON OPTIONS
R
STANDARD HALF MARATHON (13.1 MILES)
The looped course winds through picturesque areas, highlighting river views and gentle inclines, suitable for both new and experienced runners.
* DISTANCE: 13.1 miles
* CUTOFF TIME: 5 hours
* TERRAIN: Mix of trail and scenic riverside paths
R
HALF MARATHON RUCK DIVISION (13.1 MILES)
This division is tailored to individuals looking for a unique challenge that tests endurance, strength, and resilience, providing an alternative to traditional running.
* WEIGHT REQUIREMENTS: 20 lbs minimum (under 150 lb participants) / 30 lbs minimum (over 150 lb participants)
* VERIFICATION: Weights checked at start and finish
* CUTOFF TIME: 5 hours
* COURSE: Same scenic half-marathon route
LAST RUNNER STANDING ULTRA
Push your limits in this unique ultra-running event combining strategic pacing with endurance against the stunning backdrop of Lake Travis. Experience the thrill of a format that rewards both physical stamina and tactical intelligence.
EVENT FORMAT
Every hour on the hour, runners tackle a scenic 4.2-mile out-and-back loop along Lake Travis. The challenge? Keep going until you can't complete the loop within the hour or until you're the last one standing. If two or more runners complete the final lap (24th hour), the winner is determined by the fastest time on the 24th lap.
VICTORY CONDITIONS
To be crowned the overall winner, you must:
* Complete one final loop after all other runners have finished
* Continue running past 6:30 PM to validate your victory
* Be the fastest final runner remaining across all race distances, i.e. if more than one runner remains at the 10 hour OR 24 hour mark. The remaining runners will compete for the fastest last runner standing position.
PERFECT FOR
* Experienced ultra-runners seeking a new format to test their limits
* Marathon runners ready to step up to ultra distances
* Strategic runners who excel at pacing and mental endurance
CHALLENGE DETAILS
* LOOP DISTANCE: 4.2 miles
* FORMAT: One loop per hour
* DURATION: 24-hour endurance challenge
* TERRAIN: Gravel trails with lakeside views
Each loop brings new challenges and achievements, building toward an unforgettable day of personal accomplishment. Register now to discover what you're truly capable of, one hour at a time.
24-HOUR ENDURANCE CHALLENGE
Go the Distance on Your Terms
Not interested in the competitive Last Runner Standing format but still want to test your endurance? Our 24-Hour Endurance Challenge allows you to set your own pace and distance goals while enjoying the same beautiful course along Lake Travis.
Event Format
Participants follow the same 4.2-mile loop as the Last Runner Standing competitors but without the hourly time constraints. Start when you're ready and complete as many loops as possible within the 24-hour period. Take breaks when needed and run entirely on your schedule.
Perfect For:
* Ultra runners seeking a personal distance challenge
* Endurance athletes looking to set new personal records
* Those who prefer a self-paced format without elimination
* Runners transitioning from shorter ultras to longer time-based events
Challenge Details:
* Loop Distance: 4.2 miles
* Duration: Full 24-hour access to the course
* Support: Full aid station access throughout the event
* Tracking: Individual lap counting and total distance tracking
All 24-Hour Endurance Challenge participants who complete at least 50 miles receive a special achievement medal in addition to the standard finisher medal.
Set your own goals, find your rhythm, and discover just how far you can go in 24 hours on the beautiful trails of Arkansas Bend Park.
TRAIL 5K: RUN OR RUCK
START YOUR YEAR ON THE RIGHT FOOT
Kick off your New Year with an invigorating trail run through scenic natural terrain. This 5K adventure combines the energy of a fresh start with the serenity of nature, making it the perfect way to launch your New Year's fitness journey.
Begin your year immersed in nature as you wind through wooded trails, taking in breathtaking vistas. Our well-marked 5K course features natural terrain, offering both challenge and inspiration for runners and hikers of all levels.
OPTION: Complete as a run or ruck (weighted backpack) - your choice!
VIEW COURSE MAPS [https://d2mkojm4rk40ta.cloudfront.net/us-east-1-src/prod/clientUploads/2024-12/16/1/164933/b82a038f-037a-4c01-9e46-a77188957298-bNx7Sq.png]
RING IN THE NEW YEAR ON THE TRAILS
Challenge yourself in the beauty of Arkansas Bend Park - choose your distance and start your year with an achievement!
REGISTER NOW
Races
-
50K Ultramarathon
Incl. $6.10 Fee & T-Shirt
Thu 1st January 2026 (8:30AM CST)
$91.10
Join us for an exhilarating race day where you'll not only challenge your limits but also enjoy a dynamic and ever-changing course layout! The welcoming environment encourages participants of all paces and fitness levels to take on their next running challenge. Adventure awaits on these scenic sun-bleached limestone bluffs and verdant courses. -
25K Trail Run
Incl. $4.60 Fee & T-Shirt
Thu 1st January 2026 (8:30AM CST)
$64.60
For those seeking a shorter yet challenging distance, kick off your new year with an epic trail ultrarunning experience that takes you through varied natural scenery! Enjoy a 15.5-mile looped journey through the most scenic areas of Arkansas Bend Park, complete with a 7-hour cutoff time. -
Half Marathon (13.1 Miles)
Incl. $4.30 Fee & T-Shirt
Thu 1st January 2026 (8:30AM CST)
$59.30
The looped course winds through picturesque areas, highlighting river views, and gentle inclines, suitable for both new and experienced runners. -
Half Marathon (13.1 Miles) Ruck Division
Incl. $4.30 Fee & T-Shirt
Thu 1st January 2026 (8:30AM CST)
$59.30
In a bid to expand the community and embrace a broader spectrum of physical activities, the Challenge also includes a special Ruck Division within the 13.1-mile half-marathon. This division is tailored to individuals looking for a unique challenge that tests endurance, strength, and resilience, providing an alternative to traditional running. Weight Requirements: Participants must carry a weighted backpack. The minimum weight is 20 pounds for participants under 150 pounds and 30 pounds for those over 150 pounds. Weights will be verified at the beginning and end of the race. Course: Ruck Division participants will tackle the same scenic half-marathon course, designed to be both challenging and rewarding, with the added difficulty of the weighted ruck. -
5K Run/Walk
Incl. $2.80 Fee & T-Shirt
Thu 1st January 2026 (9:00AM CST)
$32.79
-
Last Runner Standing Ultra (24 Hour)
Incl. $7.00 Fee & T-Shirt
Thu 1st January 2026 (8:30AM CST)
$106.99
Challenge yourself in this unique ultra-running event that combines the strategic pacing of a backyard ultra against the beautiful backdrop of Lake Travis, this event pushes your limits. -
24 Hour Endurance Challenge
Incl. $7.00 Fee
Thu 1st January 2026 (8:30AM CST)
$106.99
Here's a two-paragraph summary of the 24-Hour Endurance Challenge event: The 24-Hour Endurance Challenge offers runners an alternative to the competitive Last Runner Standing format, allowing participants to tackle the same scenic 4.2-mile loop along Lake Travis at their own pace. This self-directed format enables athletes to set personal distance goals, take breaks when needed, and complete as many loops as possible within the 24-hour period without hourly time constraints. Designed for ultra runners seeking personal challenges, endurance athletes aiming for new records, and those transitioning to longer events, the challenge provides full aid station support and individual lap tracking throughout. Participants who complete at least 50 miles receive a special achievement medal in addition to the standard finisher medal, making this event perfect for those who want to discover their endurance limits in the beautiful setting of Arkansas Bend Park. -
Kids 1K
Incl. $1.60 Fee & T-Shirt
Thu 1st January 2026 (9:00AM CST)
$11.60
Our 1K race is specially designed for our youngest athletes, ages 8 and under. This exciting event offers children a taste of competitive running in a fun, supportive environment. Guardians are welcome to accompany their child during the 1K. To do so, you must be registered for the 5K. This ensures proper event coverage and safety for all participants. Participants will: -Race on a safe, kid-friendly 1-kilometer course -Cross the same finish line as the 5K runners, just like the pros -Build confidence and develop a love for running and fitness Watch your little ones beam with pride as they sprint across the same finish line as the older athletes. It's a perfect opportunity for families to participate together, with parents able to run the 5K while kids tackle the 1K challenge. -
5K Ruck
Incl. $2.80 Fee & T-Shirt
Thu 1st January 2026 (9:00AM CST)
$32.79
Required Gear Rucksack: GORUCK Rucker recommended, but any rucksack is acceptable Must have reflective elements for visibility and safety Ruck Plates: Men: 20 lb (9.1 kg) Ruck Plate Women: 10 lb (4.5 kg) Ruck Plate Plates must be placed high in the rucksack, close to your back Additional Gear: Hydration system (water bladder or bottles) Appropriate footwear for trail conditions Weather-appropriate clothing Weight Requirements These weight requirements apply to all events (5K, 10K, and Half Marathon): Men: 20 lbs (9.1 kg) Women: 10 lbs (4.5 kg) Note: These are dry weights. Water, food, and additional gear do not count towards the weight requirement. Weight Verification Weight checks will be conducted at the start and finish of each event For longer events (10K and Half Marathon), additional checks may be performed during the course Participants must maintain the required weight throughout the entire event Additional Notes While GORUCK Ruck Plates are recommended, equivalent weights (e.g. weight vest pl
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Add a reviewLake Travis New Year's Trail Challenge with Ruck options- 50K | 25K | 1/2 Marathon | 24 Hour Race /Last Runner Standing | 5K Run/Walk | Kids 1K
