08/03/2026
A BRAND-NEW RACE IS COMING TO THUNDER MOUNTAIN!
On Saturday, October 3, 2026, runners will take on one of the most unique—and relentless—challenges at the Lake of the Ozarks: the inaugural Thunder Mountain Challenge, presented by Bridal Cave & Thunder Mountain Park.
This is not your typical trail race.
The course begins at the top of Thunder Mountain, near the Thunder Mountain Park Event Center. From there, runners will descend the steep and winding Bridal Cave Road toward the Lake of the Ozarks, continue along a short gravel section near the bottom of the mountain, circle the turnaround point—and then begin the demanding climb back to the top.
Each trip down and back covers approximately one mile and delivers roughly 300 feet of elevation gain. The downhill will test your control. The climb will test your strength. Repeating it will test everything else.
Choose your challenge:
⚡ The Bridal 5Kave
Complete three full descents and climbs of Thunder Mountain. It is approximately 5K in distance, but the elevation makes it feel like much more.
⚡ The 3-Hour Challenge
Complete as many full descents and climbs as possible within three hours.
⚡ The 6-Hour Challenge
Six hours. One mountain. Keep moving up and down Thunder Mountain until time—or your legs—says otherwise.
An aid station will be waiting at the top of the mountain at the Event Center, giving runners a place to refuel before beginning another descent. Completed climbs will be tracked throughout the event, adding to the competitive atmosphere as runners battle the mountain, the clock and one another.
The event begins at 7 a.m., when the October morning air should be cool, the lake will be visible below and Thunder Mountain will be waiting.
The inaugural event is limited to just 75 total participants, creating an intimate and memorable race-day experience.
Every registered runner—and their family and friends—will also receive 25% off a guided tour of Bridal Cave by showing a race bib. The discount is valid race weekend and throughout the remainder of 2026 on any date Bridal Cave is open.
This is your opportunity to be part of the first chapter of a completely new Lake of the Ozarks endurance event.
Come experience the descent.
Embrace the climb.
Conquer Thunder Mountain.
Saturday, October 3, 2026
Bridal Cave & Thunder Mountain Park
7 a.m. start
Limited to 75 participants
Register today on UltraSignup: https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=140805
Presenting Sponsor: Bridal Cave