Rock River Canyon

Rock River Canyon

Rock River Canyon is a trail running event in Munising, Michigan, offering two distance options.

• 50K
• 27K

The longer course is an out and back route that begins at Valley Spur Lodge and follows a seldom-used section of the North Country Trail to AuTrain and into the Rock River Canyon Wilderness, then retraces east to Valley Spur. That route includes about 26 miles of single track and roughly 5 miles of dirt forest road, totaling about 31 miles with approximately 2690 feet of elevation change. The shorter course is 100 percent single track with a turnaround at the second aid station (AuTrain) and covers about 16.5 miles with around 414 feet of elevation gain.

There are six aid stations spaced roughly 4 to 5.4 miles apart. Runners are required to carry a 20 oz water bottle or a functional hydration system that can be refilled. Volunteers provide cold water, Gnarly Fuel2O electrolyte drink, Hammer Energy Gels, and Endurolytes at aid stations.

Event logistics note that parking is available at Valley Spur and a large tent at the start and finish will hold drop bags; participants should check this area before boarding the ferry boat back to the mainland. Field size is limited to 100 runners. All finishers receive a commemorative award and podium awards are given to the top three male and female finishers in each distance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.