Ode in the Snow 8 Hours
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Event
The event is scheduled for January 17, 2026, at 5000 McGinnis Rd., Holly, Michigan. Race formats listed include on-site trail distances and a virtual 8-hour option. Registration closes on January 16.
Distances offered:
- 8 Hour (on-site)
- Virtual 8 Hour
- Trail 10k
- Trail 5k
- Trail 4.17 miler
There is no chip timing. Virtual runners may complete their run any time within two weeks before race day and must submit results by the day after the in-person race.
Course, rules and prizes
The main course is a 4.167 mile loop with about 450 feet of climbing. The loop is about two-thirds technical single track, one-third moderate walking/hiking path, and includes a few hundred yards of pavement. The 5k and 10k use the same loop but remove an out-and-back section; those distances include an immediate u-turn after the top of a stair climb.
Contestants provide their own aid. Crew is permitted. Pacers are not allowed unless a continuous-format runner exceeds ten laps. Racers receive a chair/cooler space near the start/finish; one canopy up to 10' x 10' is allowed per contestant. Gas or fuel camp stoves are permitted with a fire extinguisher; charcoal and wood fires are only allowed in designated campground facilities. Camping is prohibited in the start/finish area and parking lot; camping is available in the McGinnis campgrounds (north half). Alcohol is permitted; glass containers are prohibited. Water and coffee are provided. No hiking poles, dogs, strollers, or headphones on the trails. A headlamp or carry light is required for trail use after 4:20 p.m.
On-site prizes include entry prizes for ultra winners, medals for 5k/10k/4.17-mile finishers, and a collectible mug for ultra finishers. On-site overall distance winners must complete at least nine laps to be eligible for entry prizes. Backyard overall winners are decided by the lowest total time for eight laps. Virtual winners are the male and female with the greatest outdoor distance in eight hours (GPS file required). One prize per person, no transfers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.