The Leatherwood Marathons returns to Ferguson, North Carolina on April 3rd, offering a series of challenging ultramarathon events deep within the rugged terrain of the Leatherwood Mountains. Participants will gather at private trails where few venture and even fewer return unchanged. The event's backdrop is set against the ancient folds of these mountains, known for their harsh conditions that test every runner’s resolve. Each loop through the course marks a new trial by mountain, with each climb posing questions about endurance and determination. This ritual has been an annual tradition since its inception, drawing runners who seek not just physical challenges but also profound personal reflection amid nature's raw beauty. The Leatherwood Marathons are renowned for their rigorous courses that demand more than mere athleticism; they require mental fortitude and a willingness to confront one’s limits. Each year sees hundreds of participants from across the United States taking part, with many returning not just for another run but for the chance at deeper self-discovery. The Leatherwood Marathons course winds through private trails marked only by orange ribbons and yellow arrows that gradually fade into insignificance as runners progress. The terrain is a mix of steep climbs and deep valleys, offering an elevation gain that varies between 3,235 feet for the shortest distance to over 25,145 feet at its longest run. With each mile marker passed, participants face increasingly rugged paths designed to challenge even seasoned ultrarunners. Race day begins early on April 3rd with gates opening at 7:00 AM in Ferguson, North Carolina. The morning air is typically crisp and clear by race start time around 8:00 AM sharp, though the trail conditions remain firm yet slightly soft underfoot—a reminder of the rocky terrain ahead. Runners should expect an average UV index of moderate strength (5.0), necessitating adequate hydration and sun protection. The Leatherwood Marathons offers a range of distances including the grueling 106.97-mile course, the challenging 100K event at 64.15 miles, as well as shorter but no less intense options like the 25K run covering 16.35 miles and the intermediate 50 Mile option spanning 80.5 kilometers.
100 Miles 160.9K • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $200.00
100K 100K • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $150.00
25K 25K • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $30.00
50 Mile 80.5K • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $100.00
50K 50K • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $70.00
How to register for the Leatherwood Marathons can be done online via https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=138204, with fees starting at $30 for the shortest distance and increasing up to $200 for the most ambitious 160.9K route. Early registration is recommended as spots fill quickly; bib pickup will be available on race morning from 7:10 AM until 7:50 AM. Participants are advised that packet pick-up can also take place earlier at a designated location in Ferguson, North Carolina should runners wish to familiarize themselves with the start line ahead of time. The event begins promptly at 8:00 AM sharp near Meadow Rd, and all participants must adhere strictly to age requirements and carry appropriate identification. The Leatherwood Marathons stands as an unparalleled experience for ultrarunners in Ferguson, North Carolina on April 3rd, offering not just a physical challenge but also the chance to delve deeply into one’s own resilience and spirit.
Races Offered
100 Miles
Apr 03, 2027
straighten
Distance —
160.9K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$200.00
100K
Apr 03, 2027
straighten
Distance —
100K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$150.00
25K
Apr 03, 2027
straighten
Distance —
25K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$30.00
50 Mile
Apr 03, 2027
straighten
Distance —
80.5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$100.00
50K
Apr 03, 2027
straighten
Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$70.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for April in Ferguson.
thermostatTemperature
8.7° / 21.1°
wb_sunnyFeels like
6.6° / 18.8°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 45m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.9 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
8.7 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
67.2%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:50
nightlight
Sunset
19:59
About Ferguson
Learn more about the host city, Ferguson.
Ferguson is a town in northern St. Louis County, Missouri. It is a suburb of St. Louis.
