Wakely Dam Ultra

The Wakely Dam Ultra, set for July 18th amidst the rugged beauty of New York's Adirondack Park wilderness, challenges runners to conquer one of North America's most remote and technical ultra marathons. This self-supported race takes place along a secluded section of the Northville Placid Trail between Piseco Lake and Wakely Dam, offering participants an immersive experience through dense forests and over rolling hills.
The 55K course features nearly 3,300 feet of elevation gain across its technical trail terrain. Runners must be prepared for a true wilderness adventure as they navigate the rugged landscape without any cross roads; your only exit points are the Piseco Airport or retracing your steps back to Wakely Dam.
Registration for this event requires runners to demonstrate their fitness and readiness through one of several qualifying races within the last 12 months: completing a marathon in under 5 hours, finishing a trail race at 9:30 hours over 50 kilometers, achieving a 50-mile finish, or securing a top-division completion time on Wakely's course. Upon registering, participants will be required to provide details of their qualifying event and share the public link to their results.
The registration fee of $115 includes not only race day essentials such as timing chips but also two meals: pre-race pasta dinner and post-race festivities for runners and their families. Race amenities include a custom-designed t-shirt, detailed course maps, and access to a supportive community of trail runners eager to share tips and experiences.
Event highlights kick off on July 17th with athlete check-in at the Piseco Airport from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, where pre-race pasta is served. The next day marks the race start at 6:30 AM after a brief orientation for newcomers and last-minute guidance from race directors.
Participants are reminded of strict rules regarding overnight camping or parking near the Piseco Airport; violators risk disqualification to ensure compliance with local regulations protecting this cherished natural setting. For those seeking accommodation, nearby campgrounds like Little Sand Point and Point Comfort offer scenic options within a short drive.
The Wakely Dam Ultra promises an unforgettable blend of physical challenge and camaraderie among runners who share a passion for conquering nature's toughest trails.