Hell Creek 100

The Hell Creek 100-mile ultramarathon returns to Sylvan Grove, Kansas on October 30th through November 1st, offering runners a challenging course through Wilson State Park’s Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail. The event features distances ranging from the grueling Pure Hell 140 and the full 100-miler down to shorter options like the 20 Miler and 10K for those seeking less daunting challenges but still wanting to experience the unique terrain of Sylvan Grove, Kansas.
On race morning, runners will gather at Wilson State Park’s Switchgrass trailhead near the Switchgrass Restroom parking lot. The park opens early with a cool autumn breeze typical for late October in Kansas, where temperatures usually range between 11 and 22 degrees Celsius. Runners can expect firm yet slightly soft trails that offer plenty of elevation gain and loss throughout each loop, making this course particularly challenging despite its location on the Kansas plains.
First introduced as part of Ultraverse Supplements’ lineup of endurance events in 2016, Hell Creek has since become a cornerstone event for ultrarunners across the United States. The race attracts hundreds of participants annually, many traveling from afar to tackle Wilson State Park’s rugged trails under the guise of cooler fall weather and a unique Halloween-themed costume contest that adds an extra layer of excitement for competitors willing to wear their costumes throughout at least one full loop on October 31st.
All runs take place exclusively within Wilson State Park along the Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail, known for its single-track paths with minimal tree cover but abundant views over the surrounding landscape. The course is marked every 20 miles and features a total elevation gain of up to 14,168 feet for those tackling the full Pure Hell 140 distance. Smaller loops are available for less ambitious runners, including a straightforward yet hilly 10K with its own cutoff time.
Runners can expect average temperatures around 17 degrees Celsius during race hours on October 31st, with an expected humidity of about 54 percent and only minimal risk of precipitation. The trail conditions are described as firm but slightly soft underfoot, providing a solid surface without excessive wear or difficulty navigating the terrain.
The Hell Creek 100-mile ultramarathon offers various distances including the Pure Hell 140, full 100-miler, team relay options, and shorter races like the 20 Miler and 10K. Each distance is meticulously planned to cater to different levels of endurance athletes.
Registration for all events can be completed via https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=136099 with fees ranging from $80 for a single entry in the 10k race up to $625 for teams participating in the full 100-mile relay. Early check-in is available on Friday evening between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM at the Switchgrass trailhead, or participants can opt for same-day registration provided they arrive at least fifteen minutes before their race start time.
Start times vary based on distance; those signed up for the Pure Hell 140 begin early in the morning of October 30th while other distances launch between 6:00 AM and 7:30 AM over subsequent days. Runners should be prepared to navigate Wilson State Park’s challenging trails, which require a high level of fitness and mental fortitude.
The Hell Creek 100-mile ultramarathon in Sylvan Grove, Kansas on October 31st is an event for serious endurance runners seeking technical trail running challenges and scenic views. The course's unique combination of elevation changes and open terrain makes it stand out among other ultra races across the country.