The Ozark's Mountain Challenge
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The Ozark's Mountain Challenge : Hiking (Ascent only)
The Ozark's Mountain Challenge is an ascent-only hiking event at Sam A. Baker State Park in Patterson, MO. Participants attempt eight climbs of Mudlick Mountain, which together equal about 7,980 feet of elevation gain and approximately 23 miles of hiking. Hikers have a 12-hour time limit to complete up to the eight ascents. The route follows the Mudlick Hike Only Trail, Mudlick Equestrian and Hike Trail, and the spur to Fire Tower Trail; AllTrails rates this route as hard with rugged terrain and inclines near 28 percent in places.
This event is not run as a race; the format emphasizes individual effort with support from other participants and volunteers. After each successful ascent, shuttles return hikers to the trailhead. If a participant completes fewer than eight ascents, each ascent is recognized.
Registration includes food across the event, on-course hydration and nutrition, recovery aids at a recovery tent, event swag, the optional Spark of Strength Ceremony on the Friday before the event, and an after-party. The Spark of Strength Ceremony is optional, held at the CCC Lodge, is free, and includes a symbolic fire pit ritual. The event has a no-refund policy, though optional refund insurance is offered during registration. Minimum age to participate is 16 years; minors must register with an adult. The host organization is the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce, a 501c3 nonprofit. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.