The Hare Mountain 100 returns to Hagarville, Arkansas on October 23rd for its annual endurance challenge through the rugged Ozark Highlands Trail. This wilderness-focused race spans Haw Creek to Shores Lake over two days and is known for pushing participants' mental and physical limits with stunning views along a challenging singletrack route.
On race morning, runners will gather at Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area in Hagarville as temperatures hover around 18 degrees Celsius under partly cloudy skies. The atmosphere is one of quiet anticipation mixed with camaraderie among seasoned ultrarunners who have come to test themselves against the mountainous terrain and long hours on their feet.
This event, now entering its several-year tradition, draws hundreds of participants each year eager for personal discovery in a remote setting. Over 100 miles of wilderness await runners as they navigate through some of Arkansas's most isolated landscapes. The race not only challenges physical endurance but also fosters a sense of community among those who push themselves to the brink.
The course winds along the National Scenic Ozark Highland’s Trail, characterized by steep climbs and descents that test even seasoned athletes’ abilities. Runners will encounter diverse terrains ranging from rocky outcrops to dense forest paths with limited shade during peak hours. Aid stations are strategically placed every 25 miles or so, providing essential supplies for runners throughout their journey.
Weather conditions on October 23rd and 24th typically feature mild temperatures between 12.9°C at dawn and a high of around 24.4°C in the afternoon. Humidity levels average around 64%, which can make long hours out in the elements feel more challenging despite comfortable daytime readings. A light chance of rain exists, adding another layer of unpredictability to this already demanding course.
The race offers multiple distances including a full point-to-point 100 miler and shorter loops such as a 50-mile out-and-back from Shores Lake. Additionally, there is the Dirty Doo duathlon that combines running and cycling over challenging terrain.
100 Miler
160.9K • Start: 10:00:00 • Fee: $315.00
50 Miler
80.5K • Start: 06:00:00 • Fee: $170.00
15 mile Dirty Doo
24.1K • Start: 09:00:00 • Fee: $85.00
25K
25K • Start: 09:00:00 • Fee: $65.00
50K
50K • Start: 09:00:00 • Fee: $140.00
To register for any of these events, visit https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=131719 where you can select your preferred distance based on your experience level. Fees vary from $65 for the 25K to $315 for the full 100-mile course.
Bib pickup will take place at Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area in Hagarville starting a week before race day, giving participants ample time to collect their packets and review all necessary information regarding aid stations, cutoff times, and mandatory gear. Runners must bring proof of entry or an email confirmation from the registration system upon arrival.
For those new to ultra-distance running, be sure to familiarize yourself with the course details provided on the race website under the "Runner's Manual." The start location is Haw Creek Falls Recreation Area in Hagarville and all participants should plan to arrive early for a thorough briefing before setting off along the challenging path ahead. Age requirements vary by distance but generally cater to adult runners.
The Hare Mountain 100, held annually near Shores Lake in Hagarville, Arkansas on October 23rd and 24th, is an unparalleled opportunity for endurance athletes seeking a profound test of their limits against the backdrop of stunning wilderness landscapes.