The Ozark's Mountain Challenge

The Ozark's Mountain Challenge

The Ozark's Mountain Challenge is an ascent-only hiking event held in Sam A. Baker State Park near Patterson, Missouri. The event asks participants to complete eight ascents of Mudlick Mountain within a twelve-hour window, producing an approximate total ascent equal to 7,980 feet and an approximate total distance of 21 miles. The route for 2026 follows Mudlick Hike Only Trail, Mudlick Equestrian and Hike Trail, and the spur to Fire Tower Trail. AllTrails rates this route as hard due to rugged footing and steep pitches that reach near 28 percent.

Hikers are shuttled back to the trailhead after each successful summit return to start the next ascent. The event is not conducted as a race and emphasizes individual physical and mental effort; volunteers and other participants offer encouragement along the course. Participants who complete fewer than eight ascents receive recognition for their achieved number of ascents.

Registration fees cover event meals, beverages including alcohol at the after-party, aid station hydration and nutrition, recovery tent services, event swag, and access to the optional Spark of Strength ceremony held the evening before at the CCC Lodge. The Spark of Strength ceremony is optional, free to attend, and includes a fire-pit ritual where individuals may symbolically release written challenges; cold drinks are provided and no pre-registration is required. The minimum participant age is 16 and the event has a no-refund policy. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.