The Ozark's Mountain Challenge

Event overview

The Ozark's Mountain Challenge is a hiking ascent event held on May 2, 2026, at Sam A. Baker State Park near Patterson, Missouri. The event is organized by the Poplar Bluff Chamber and partners with Missouri State Parks and regional sponsors. The course total is approximately 21 miles made up of repeated ascents; each ascent is about 2.6 miles with nearly 950 feet of elevation change.

Format and logistics

Participants have twelve hours to complete up to eight ascents of Mudlick Mountain; completing eight ascents equals about 7,980 feet of cumulative elevation gain. After each successful ascent, hikers are shuttled back down to the trailhead. The route uses the Mudlick Hike Only Trail, Mudlick Equestrian and Hike Trail, and the spur to Fire Tower Trail. The trail is rated hard by AllTrails and includes steep sections.

Registration includes food, drinks, aid station hydration and nutrition, recovery aids, event swag, and access to an optional Spark of Strength ceremony held the evening before. The minimum age to participate is 16. Pets are not allowed on the trail. Spectators are allowed near the starting area. The event is described as a challenge rather than a race. Registration closed April 29 for this edition. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.