Tie Dye 50k

Event Overview

The Tie Dye 50k is an annual ultramarathon held in John Bryan State Park near Yellow Springs, Ohio. It is a cupless event, meaning cups are not provided at aid stations. Participants can purchase a collapsible, reusable cup for $3 during registration to use at the aid stations.

Course Details

The course is a 3-loop route through John Bryan State Park, which features a limestone gorge carved by the Little Miami River, designated as a state and national scenic river. Each loop is approximately 10.3 miles, and the same course has been used for the previous four years.

Aid Stations & Logistics

There are fully manned aid stations at miles 5, 10.3, 15.3, 20.6, and 25.6, and water-only stations at several other points. These stations provide water, Gatorade, chips, pretzels, pickles/pickle juice, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, bananas, and cookies. Newly built restrooms are near the start/finish area. Participants can have drop bags at miles 10.3 and 20.6 (the Start/Finish), but must manage the bags themselves.

Rules & Requirements

A total completion cutoff of 9 hours is enforced. To finish within the cutoff, runners must start their third loop by 1:30 p.m. An early start option at 6:30 a.m. is available for those concerned about the time limit; early starters are only eligible for a finisher award. Parking is available in the main lot and other designated areas within the state park.

Registration & Awards

Registration costs $60 and includes a short-sleeve lightweight tech t-shirt, though the shirt guarantee deadline is April 17, 2026. The fee is non-refundable, and no deferrals are allowed. Awards are given to the top three overall female, male, and non-binary runners. All finishers within the 9-hour cutoff receive an award, and there is a special "Dig Down Deep" award for the last finisher. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.