The Midwest Grand Slam of Ultrarunning, established in 2012, is a prestigious and challenging series of ultramarathons held in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is a test of endurance, mental fortitude, and physical strength, attracting some of the most accomplished ultrarunners from around the world.

The Midwest Grand Slam of Ultrarunning is comprised of completing any of four of the five iconic Midwest ultramarathons, each presenting its own unique set of obstacles and characteristics. These races are spread across various states in the Midwest, covering diverse terrains and landscapes. Let’s take a closer look at each race which are all listed as some of Strambecco’s best trail running events in the Midwest.

1. Kettle Moraine 100: Located in Wisconsin, this race takes place in the scenic and rugged Kettle Moraine State Forest. Runners tackle a 100-mile course through dense forests, rolling hills, and challenging terrain. The race demands exceptional perseverance and offers breathtaking views along the way.
2. Mohican 100: Set in the heart of Ohio’s Mohican State Park, this race features a demanding 100-mile course through lush woodlands, steep hills, and rocky trails. Runners must navigate rugged single-track paths, stream crossings, and challenging climbs, testing both their physical and mental endurance.
3. Burning River 100: Based in Ohio, this race follows the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park and the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Runners face a diverse mix of terrain, including technical trails, crushed limestone paths, and sections of road. The course features multiple river crossings and rolling hills, making it a challenging and picturesque journey.
4. Hallucination 100: Held in Michigan, this race offers a unique and memorable experience in the beautiful Pinckney Recreation Area. Participants traverse a mix of trails, including single-track, horse trails, and dirt roads. The course showcases dense forests, open meadows, and scenic lakeshores, challenging runners with elevation changes and variable footing.
5. Indiana Trail 100:  Ignite Trail Series event was founded and nurtured by a small group of ultra-distance runners to promote and give back to Chain O’Lakes State Park in Albion, Indiana.

To complete the Midwest Grand Slam, runners must finish all four races within a specific timeframe, typically spanning several months. Those who complete all five events within the designated time limit achieve the prestigious “Super Slammer” designation.  The series demands a remarkable level of physical fitness, mental resilience, and meticulous race planning to tackle the varying terrains and accumulate the necessary mileage.

Runners who conquer the Midwest Grand Slam of Ultrarunning earn immense respect within the ultrarunning community. It represents an incredible achievement, pushing the limits of human endurance and showcasing the beauty and diversity of the Midwest’s natural landscapes.