About This Race
The Midwest States 100 is a rugged wilderness ultramarathon held in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest of Wisconsin, primarily navigating the glaciated terrain of the iconic Ice Age Trail. Runners tackle a challenging 34-hour cutoff through dense forests and rocky paths, experiencing a remote, grassroots atmosphere that purposefully lacks cellular service. This event offers a back-to-basics adventure where the trail’s natural beauty is matched by its technical difficulty and a tight-knit community of participants.
What Makes It Unique
- The 100K Decision Point: Upon reaching the 100-kilometer mark (which returns to the start/finish area), 100-mile entrants must decide whether to stop and be recorded as an official 100K finisher or head back out to complete the full 100-mile distance.
- Earn Your Flannel: In a nod to local culture, runners who complete any distance of the race three times are awarded a custom Midwest States Flannel, which can be further customized with distance-specific iron-on chevrons.
- Ice Age National Scenic Trail: The course utilizes a significant portion of one of only 11 National Scenic Trails in the U.S., taking runners through ancient landscapes featuring unique geological formations like kettles and moraines carved by glaciers.
Media Coverage
Race Director Chronicles: Michele Hartwig and Ornery Mule Racing
iRunFar
An in-depth profile and interview exploring the creation of the Midwest States 100 and its mission to bring recognition to Wisconsin's technical trail running community.
The Joy of Midwest Trail Running
The Trailhead
An interview with the race founder regarding the growth of Midwest ultrarunning and the specific character of the Midwest States 100 course.
Race Report: 2024 Midwest States 100
Bandit Coaching
A technical course profile and editorial review that details the 'sneaky tough' nature of the Wisconsin terrain and the unique self-supported feel of the remote National Forest location.