The Ultra Bird 12hr and 6hr Trail Races

The Ultra Bird 12hr and 6hr Trail Races take place in West Olive, Michigan, on October 10, 2026, organized by Egress Endurance. The program combines timed formats, a 12-hour and a 6-hour race plus a 3-hour Ruck, with fixed-distance options, a 10K and a 5K, all on trails.

Timed trail races on a loop are among the most accessible ways to attempt an ultra. In the 6-hour you can aim for a marathon or a first 50K at your own pace, and the 12-hour opens the door to 50 miles or beyond for those who pace patiently and keep eating. The 3-hour Ruck, done with a weighted pack, appeals to hikers and to runners wanting a strength-oriented challenge. The 10K and 5K let beginners and families share the day on the same course. For the timed events, plan 14 to 18 weeks of training with weekend long runs of three to four hours mixing running and walking, and practice grabbing food and fluids quickly at each loop. Lake Michigan-side weather in October can change fast, so pack layers for wind and rain.