Thunder Mountain Challenge
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Thunder Mountain Challenge
The Thunder Mountain Challenge is a debut hill race in Camdenton, MO, organized by Ha Ha Racing Events and capped at 75 runners. The event offers three race formats and uses an out-and-back course that repeats a half mile descent and a half mile climb.
Distances and formats:
- The Bridal 5Kave - three out-and-back repeats (about 5K)
- 3 hour Challenge - winner by most completed climbs during the time
- 6 hour Challenge - winner by most completed climbs during the time
Each ascent gains approximately 300 feet of elevation. Most running is on asphalt along Bridal Cave Road with a short gravel section on the lower portion. There will be one aid station at the top of Thunder Mountain inside the Thunder Mountain Park Event Center; it will provide water, electrolytes, standard aid station supplies, and restrooms. The Event Center also serves as the official check-in location and will display a live scoreboard tracking completed climbs.
Race procedures and safety: runners check in at the top after every climb and final standings in the timed events are based on completed climbs; an incomplete climb when time expires does not count. Drop bags are allowed for the 3 hour and 6 hour challenges and are located at the start/finish area. For safety, pets and headphones are not allowed and the course remains open to vehicle traffic, so runners should run against traffic and remain aware of surroundings.
Bridal Cave is the presenting sponsor and will offer a 25 percent discount on guided cave tours to runners and guests who show a race bib during the race weekend or any day Bridal Cave is open later in 2026. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
