WausaUltra Solo, Double, Limitless

The WausaUltra Solo, Double, and Limitless event is a premier trail running competition held at Sylvan Park in Wausau, Wisconsin, from May 1 to May 3, 2026. Now in its sixth year, the festival features a "Backyard Ultra" format alongside traditional distance options. The "Limitless" race follows the classic last-person-standing protocol, where participants must complete a 4.167-mile loop every hour, on the hour, until only one runner remains or until the midnight deadline on Sunday. This specific loop distance is designed so that 24 laps equal exactly 100 miles.

Sylvan Park is located in the hilly terrain of Wausau, Marathon County, which sits in the geographic center of Wisconsin. The course is primarily single-track trail and gravel paths, characterized by significant elevation changes, including climbs up the park's tubing hills. Runners traverse through dense forest, cross gentle bridges over a creek, and navigate "roller coaster" descents. In early May, the climate in Central Wisconsin is typically cool; average daytime temperatures reach 18°C (64°F), though nighttime temperatures for the Limitless runners can drop to 4°C (40°F). The park serves as an "oasis" between laps, providing participants with access to tents, aid stations, and facilities every hour.

Logistically, registration for all events closes on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 5:00 PM CT, and no race-day registrations are permitted. The event maintains a strict no-refund and no-deferral policy, though registration transfers between individuals are allowed if arranged privately. Top historical performances at WausaUltra have seen elite men like Mark Dowdle and Travis White surpass 158 miles (38 loops). Participants are encouraged to email the race directors at [email protected] for specific transfer requests. The event is managed through the UltraSignup platform, ensuring professional timing and record-keeping for all trail distances.