About the Event
Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty and challenging terrain of Lake Bistineau State Park for the upcoming 50-mile race option, set to take place in 2026. This course offers runners an unforgettable journey through Louisiana's lush landscapes.
The route consists of a 10-mile loop repeated five times, featuring sections of the Blue Wing, Koasati, and Whoa Mule trails. These paths wind through the park’s diverse terrain, characterized by flat stretches with muddy patches, tree roots, and natural surfaces typical of classic trail conditions in Louisiana State Parks.
Aid stations are strategically placed to ensure runners have everything they need throughout their journey. The main station at the Start/Finish area offers hot food and a variety of snacks for refueling. Additionally, an unmanned aid station is located around mile 5, serving as a halfway point with water, snacks, ice, and electrolytes.
Lake Bistineau State Park provides not only stunning natural beauty but also exceptional recreational facilities. Situated on the western shore of Lake Bistineau, it boasts upland mixed hardwood forests, open waters, and enchanting stands of cypress and tupelo trees. The park is home to two boat launches, hiking trails, biking paths, playgrounds, camping sites, cabins, and excellent fishing opportunities.
Runners can look forward to enjoying a rich array of amenities during their stay at the park. Lake Bistineau itself dates back over 200 years, with its history rooted in significant geological events that shaped the landscape we see today. The lake’s clear waters are home to various freshwater fish species such as black crappie, largemouth bass, yellow bass, catfish, bluegill, and red-ear sunfish.
The park offers nearly 10 miles of woodland trails for hiking or running enthusiasts who wish to explore on foot. For those preferring a water adventure, an 11-mile canoe trail allows visitors to experience the beauty of Lake Bistineau from another perspective.
For lodging needs, Lake Bistineau State Park provides various options including premium campsites with pull-through and prime location sites featuring electrical hookups, as well as improved campgrounds. There are also cabins available for a more comfortable stay during your race weekend.
Participants in this event will receive swag items tailored to their chosen distance: a hoodie and headband for the 50-mile option, complemented by awards such as finisher buckles and custom buckle holders designed specifically for top male and female competitors. Medals are awarded to all finishers of the 25K and 50M distances, with plaques given to the top three males and females.
The race day menu includes a variety of hot food options at the Start/Finish area, such as bacon, PB&J sandwiches, chips, cookies, quesadillas, grilled cheese sandwiches, pickles, candy, crackers, potatoes, gummies, soda, water, ice, electrolytes, and vegan choices. A finish meal will also be provided.
Discounts are available for military personnel, donors, and first responders who can provide proof within 24 hours of registration to receive their discount codes at checkout.
This race is designed with the runner’s experience in mind, offering ample time to complete both distances: a generous 15-hour cutoff for the 50-mile option and an even more relaxed 40-hour cutoff for the full marathon. Join us as we celebrate nature and challenge ourselves on this incredible course at Lake Bistineau State Park.
The event promises not only physical challenges but also opportunities to connect with nature, history, and community in a unique setting that blends adventure and beauty.
