The 16 Hour Lock-in
Carolina Beach, United States • 21 Nov 2026
The 16 Hour Lock-In - Carolina Beach State Park
The 16 Hour Lock In takes place on November 21, 2026 at Carolina Beach State Park in Carolina Beach, NC. Organized by Punk Rock Ultras, the event gives participants 16 hours to complete a repeated 4.5 mile loop as many times as they choose. The format is no DNF, so participants may aim for a single lap or accumulate many laps over the timed period.
The course runs through coastal maritime forest with views along the Cape Fear River. Trails are groomed, wide and relatively flat, with two hills of about 100 feet climb per loop. Surfaces include dirt, sand, pine straw, roots and a short section of road. Each loop passes the Start/Finish area, where participants can access personal gear, toilets and the aid station.
The aid station offers water, Tailwind and a variety of salty, sweet and savory snacks, plus two hot meals at midday and at dinner. The race is cup free; racers must bring their own refillable hydration vessel. A headlamp or similar light is required for runners who continue after dusk.
Overnight access is restricted to registered campers. The organizer offers 30 group campsites with a small camping upgrade that includes a 10 by 10 area, an overnight car pass and primitive facilities. Alternately participants may reserve a family campground site less than one mile from the course. Cars may not remain in the park overnight unless the participant is a registered camper.
The event has limited capacity and may sell out. Registration closes November 1 and a waitlist is available. Cancellations are eligible for a 75 percent refund through October 1. Bib transfers are not allowed.
Finishers receive a patch for recognized distances including 13.1, 26.2, 50k, 50 mile and 100k; 100 mile finishers receive a buckle. All participants receive a Punk Rock Ultras Lock In shirt; registering before October 1 guarantees shirt size. Top three competitors by distance are awarded in Male, Female and Non Binary divisions.
Volunteers who complete six hours receive a race shirt, priority registration for the next year and credit toward the 64 Hour Club; night shift volunteers receive free camping. Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.