The Tick
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The Tick - May 1, 2027
The Tick is a wilderness ultra running event held in the Ocala National Forest that follows the Florida National Scenic Trail. The advertised course distance is 50 miles plus 7.41 bonus miles, for a total of about 57.41 miles, run point to point between Kirkpatrick (Rodman) Dam and Alexander Springs State Park.
The route passes through lakes, prairies, marshes, and tall-growth pine and hardwood forest on mostly singletrack trail. Trail conditions can include wetlands, uneven surfaces, dense vegetation, humid and hot weather, and tick habitat. Wildlife reported along the trail includes deer, bobcats, black bears, hawks, eagles, scrub jays, rabbits, snakes, turtles, and small mammals.
This event is not fully supported. Pop-up aid stations are planned at roughly 10-mile intervals, but availability and access are limited. Runners may choose to run with a crew or as unsupported; unsupported runners must carry sufficient water, nutrition, required gear, and plan for long stretches without aid. Every participant and crew must carry a reliable means of communication such as a cell phone or GPS messenger.
The race is point to point; participants are responsible for their own transportation to the start and from the finish. Participation is capped at 50 and there is no registration fee; a suggested donation of $25 per participant to support the Florida Trail Association is requested. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
