The Loup Garou Trail Run returns to Ville Platte, Louisiana on December 5th, welcoming runners for a unique winter trail experience through the heart of Cajun country. Participants will gather at Chicot Park Rd., where the race begins with an early morning start in cool but clear conditions. The park and its surroundings offer a blend of cypress swamps, hardwood forests, and piney woods, providing a diverse landscape that challenges even experienced runners. As day breaks on December 5th, temperatures hover around freezing at sunrise, gradually climbing to the mid-40s by noon. Established as an annual event since its inception in 2017, Loup Garou Trail Run has become a cornerstone of winter trail running culture in Louisiana, drawing over 300 participants each year. The race supports local conservation efforts and promotes outdoor recreation within the community, making it not just a test of endurance but also an opportunity to engage with nature and support environmental causes. The course itself traverses approximately 16 miles of single-track trails that wind through varied terrain including swamps and dense forest areas. Runners encounter several long bridges that cross over swampy regions, offering stunning views and challenging elevation changes due to the uneven ground. Aid stations are strategically placed every five miles along the route, providing essential hydration and energy boosts. On race day, runners can expect firm yet slightly soft trail conditions underfoot, with low UV exposure in line with typical December weather patterns for Ville Platte, Louisiana. The risk of precipitation remains minimal during this time of year, allowing participants to focus on navigating through the varied terrain without worrying about adverse weather elements impacting performance.
100 Miler 160.9K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $205.00
40 Miler 64.4K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $145.00
60 Miler 96.6K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $175.00
20 Miler 32.2K • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $105.00
Runners can register online through https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=133276 for any of the available distances until November 29th, ensuring their spot in what promises to be a memorable and challenging event. Bib pickup will take place on December 4th from 5 PM to 8 PM at Chicot Park Rd., where participants must show proof of registration. On race day, runners should report to the start line located at 3469 Chicot Park Rd. for their respective wave starts based on distance and time constraints. Age requirements are open to all ages but younger participants may need a guardian present or sign-off depending on specific event guidelines provided by organizers. The Loup Garou Trail Run in Ville Platte, Louisiana, scheduled for December 5th, offers an authentic taste of Cajun trail running culture through its diverse and challenging terrain. With its support for local conservation efforts and engaging community atmosphere, this race stands out as a must-attend event for anyone looking to push their limits while contributing positively to the environment around them.
Races Offered
100 Miler
Dec 05, 2026
straighten
Distance —
160.9K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$205.00
40 Miler
Dec 05, 2026
straighten
Distance —
64.4K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$145.00
60 Miler
Dec 05, 2026
straighten
Distance —
96.6K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$175.00
20 Miler
Dec 05, 2026
straighten
Distance —
32.2K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$105.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for December in Ville Platte.
thermostatTemperature
8.1° / 18.3°
wb_sunnyFeels like
5.3° / 16.4°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
7h 51m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
4.4 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
11.4 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Low (2.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
75.4%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:58
nightlight
Sunset
18:10
About Ville Platte
Learn more about the host city, Ville Platte.
Ville Platte is the largest city in, and the parish seat of, Evangeline Parish, Louisiana, United States. The population was 6,303 at the 2020 census, down from 8,145 in 2000. The city's name is of French origin, roughly translating to "flat town", in reference to its relatively flat topography in contrast to the more hilly terrain north of the area.
