The Arkansas Ultra Trail Series (UTS) kicks off its 2025–2026 season on June 14 with the Cotter Bridge Ultra, a unique endurance event set against the scenic backdrop of Big Springs Park in Cotter, Arkansas. Formerly known as the Arkansas Backyard Ultra Championship, this race has evolved into a distinctive timed event that challenges runners both physically and strategically.
A Unique Race Format
The Cotter Bridge Ultra offers race options of 1, 3, 6, and 12 hours. Participants complete repeated 4.1667-mile laps along a mostly flat, soft gravel course that follows the White River. Each lap must be completed within 59 minutes and 59 seconds, with the race continuing until either the time limit or the distance is reached.
Adding a competitive twist, specific laps—namely the 1st, 3rd, 6th, and 12th—are designated as “hot laps.” Winners of these laps are determined by who finishes them first, introducing a strategic element where pacing and timing are crucial.
Launching the 2025–2026 UTS Season
The Arkansas Ultra Trail Series (UTS) for the 2025–2026 season offers a diverse array of trail running events across the state, catering to both seasoned ultrarunners and those new to the sport. Organized by the Arkansas Ultra Running Association (AURA), the series includes a mix of challenging races and more accessible runs, all contributing to a point-based system that recognizes top performers at the season’s end.
The season kicks off on June 14, 2025, with the Cotter Bridge Ultra in Cotter, a unique endurance event where runners complete 4.1667-mile loops every hour until only one remains. Following this, the Full mOOn 50K/25K takes place on July 19 in Perryville, offering nighttime trail running under the full moon. In August, the Scorchin’ Squirrel 15M in Little Rock on August 16 and the Mt. Nebo Trail Run in Dardanelle on August 23 provide runners with challenging terrains and scenic views.
October features the prestigious Arkansas Traveller 100 on October 4 in Perryville, a 100-mile race through the Ouachita Mountains. Later in the month, the Hot Springs National Park Trail Run offers 18M and 14M options, showcasing the beauty of the national park. In November, the Sunset 6/12/24 Hr Endurance Run in Benton allows participants to test their limits over various timeframes.
As winter approaches, the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail 26.2M on December 6 in Mt. Ida presents a marathon-distance challenge. The new year begins with the Athens Big Fork Trail Marathon on January 3, 2026, known for its rugged terrain. February includes the White Rock 50K/25K in Cass and the LOViT 100K/100Mile in Hot Springs on February 21, offering varying distances for different skill levels.
March brings the multi-day 3-Days of Syllamo event from March 20–22 in Mountain View, testing runners over three consecutive days. The Styx & Stones Trail Races on March 29 at Devil’s Den State Park offer 26M and 13M distances. In April, the Ouachita Trail 50K/50M on April 18 in Little Rock challenges runners with its rugged trails. Participants can also complete the Runner’s Choice Marathon anytime between April 15, 2025, and April 15, 2026, choosing their own course and submitting results.
The season concludes in May with the Mt. Magazine Trail Run on May 2 in Mt. Magazine State Park, offering 18M and 12M options. The Northwoods Mullet Trail Run on May 9 in Hot Springs provides a 25K race through scenic trails. Additionally, participants can earn points by reporting Trail Work completed between May 4, 2025, and May 4, 2026, contributing to the maintenance of the trails they enjoy. The season wraps up with The Catsmacker on May 23 at Lake Sylvia, followed by the UTS awards ceremony celebrating the achievements of the trail running community.
Community and Scenic Appeal
Big Springs Park in Cotter provides a picturesque setting for the race, with its proximity to the White River offering scenic views and a tranquil environment. The event is designed to be family-friendly, encouraging spectators and supporters to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while cheering on the runners.
Registration and Participation
Runners interested in participating can register through UltraSignup, with registration closing on June 7 at 11:59 PM CT. The race begins at 7:00 AM on June 14, offering a unique opportunity for both seasoned ultrarunners and newcomers to test their endurance and strategy in a supportive community setting.
More information on the Cotter Bridge Ultra and the Ultra Trail Series, visit the Arkansas Ultra Running Association’s website.
This article was originally published on ArkansasOutside.com, your trusted source for outdoor news and updates in The Natural State. Unless otherwise credited, all photos included in this piece are the property of Arkansas Outside, LLC. We take pride in sharing the beauty and adventures of Arkansas through our lens—thank you for supporting our work!
