The 3 Legged Monster Race returns to the Ozark Trail in Steelville, Missouri on August 15, 2026, offering a unique triathlon-style relay race for teams of two across running, mountain biking, and paddling segments. Participants will gather at various points along the trail and waterways within Mark Twain National Forest, starting their respective legs from designated meeting spots like Ozark Outdoors Riverfront Resort near Leasburg, Missouri.
Race morning in Steelville is expected to be characterized by firm but slightly soft trail conditions, typical of early August. The start times for each leg are meticulously planned: the running segment begins at 7:45 am with a shuttle meet-up point at Ozark Outdoors Riverfront Resort near Leasburg, Missouri; mountain bikers will roll out from Bass’ River Resort heading east on Floyd Tower Road (FR2265) starting at 7:30 am for the long course or 8:30 am for the short course; paddlers will navigate Courtois and Huzzah Creeks before merging onto the Meramec River, aiming to reach their final destination by early afternoon.
Since its inception several years ago, the 3 Legged Monster Race has become a significant event in Missouri’s outdoor sports calendar. Teams of two tackle challenging terrains across Mark Twain National Forest, contributing financially to the Ozark Trail Association, which focuses on preserving and maintaining trails within the region. This race not only showcases the natural beauty of Steelville but also supports local conservation efforts.
The course for both long and short courses features a mix of rugged terrain and scenic routes designed specifically around key landmarks such as Bass’ River Resort and Ozark Outdoors Riverfront Resort near Leasburg, Missouri. The trail running leg takes participants through rolling hardwood forests with stunning overlooks along the Huzzah Conservation Area. Mountain bikers will navigate winding trails in pine groves and cherty ridges, while paddlers follow crystal clear creeks to the Meramec River finish line.
Race day weather forecasts indicate firm but slightly soft trail conditions due to recent rainfall and moderate temperatures typical for August, though participants should be prepared for high UV indexes. Humidity levels are expected to remain stable throughout the morning hours without significant risk of precipitation, creating a challenging yet navigable environment for all competitors.
The 3 Legged Monster Race offers two relay options: a shorter course with running at 7 miles and mountain biking at 11 miles, or an extended route featuring a longer run spanning 13 miles alongside a more extensive bike trail covering 30 miles. Both courses conclude with the same paddling leg along Courtois Creek toward Ozark Outdoors Riverfront Resort.
To register for either course, visit https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=134806 and select your preferred relay option from the list of available entries. Registration fees are set at $190 per team regardless of chosen distance due to logistical complexities involved in organizing such an extensive event.
Participants must ensure they pick up their bib numbers between 7:00 am and 7:30 am on race day, either directly at Bass’ River Resort or the Ozark Outdoors Riverfront Resort near Leasburg. Required items include a valid photo ID to confirm identity as well as any personal gear needed for each segment of competition.
All teams will gather at the start location located at 204 Butts Rd in Steelville, Missouri. Age requirements are flexible but all participants must be able to safely complete their respective segments under race conditions without assistance beyond what is provided by event organizers and support staff on-site.
The 3 Legged Monster Race in Steelville, Missouri, scheduled for August 15th, offers a compelling challenge across varied terrains within the Ozark Trail region. This annual relay competition supports critical trail preservation efforts through contributions to the Ozark Trail Association, making it an event of both physical and environmental significance for runners, bikers, and paddlers alike.
55M 2 Per Relay
Start: 07:30:00 • Fee: $190.00
33M 2 Per Relay
Start: 08:15:00 • Fee: $190.00
- 55M 2 Per Relay | fee=$190.00
- 33M 2 Per Relay | fee=$190.00
