The 16 Hour Lock-in
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The 16 Hour Lock-In at Carolina Beach State Park
The 16 Hour Lock-In is a timed endurance event on November 21, 2026, held at Carolina Beach State Park in Carolina Beach, NC and organized by Punk Rock Ultras. Participants have 16 hours to complete a 4.5-mile loop as many times as they wish. The event uses a no DNF format so entrants may aim for a single lap or many laps within the allotted time.
The course runs through a coastal maritime forest with groomed, wide and relatively flat trails. Each loop includes two hills of roughly 100 feet of climb, surfaces of dirt, sand, pine straw and roots, plus a short section of road with grass available to run off-road. The Start/Finish area and group campsite serve as the central access point for personal gear, drop bags, bathrooms, and the aid station.
Aid station provisions include water, Tailwind, salty and sweet snacks, and two hot meals served during the event with attempts to provide vegan and gluten free options when informed ahead of time. The race is cup free so participants must bring a refillable hydration vessel. Lighting for after-dark running is required.
Camping is available in two ways: a limited group campsite adjacent to the course with reserved 10x10 areas and primitive facilities, or the Carolina Beach State Park family campground located a short walk or drive from the course. A waitlist and volunteer options are offered, and specific refund and cancellation terms apply. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
