The Back 9 Endurance Run Returns to Copper Harbor for 2026

Copper Harbor, Michigan, April 4, 2026 —

The Back 9 Endurance Run, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula 12/24-hour trail endurance event, is set to return to the stunning grounds of the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge on May 23–24, 2026. 

Held each spring at the historic Keweenaw Mountain Lodge in Copper Harbor, the Back 9 Endurance Run challenges runners to complete as many laps as possible over a 3.7-mile loop within their chosen time window — 12 or 24 hours. The course winds through the Lodge’s iconic “Back 9” trails, across the golf course, through forested terrain, and over rolling hills, offering views of Brockway Mountain along the way. Participants can expect the full Keweenaw experience: hills, towering trees, dirt, and the occasional bug.

What sets this event apart from traditional road or timed-distance races is its emphasis on personal achievement over competition. There are no cutoffs, no DNFs — runners simply go as far as they want to go. Whether that’s one loop or twenty, the finish line is wherever the runner decides to stop. At the end of every loop, runners face the signature question that has become the race’s motto: Just One More Round?

Participants can take on the challenge solo or register as part of a team of two or four, with only one team member running at a time. The relaxed, communal atmosphere makes the event welcoming to first-time ultra-distance runners and seasoned endurance athletes alike.

“Our focus is to get runners closer to nature and provide an atmosphere that is encouraging and supportive,” said Race Director John Mueller. “An endurance run offers a great opportunity to explore new distances and push past your own perceived limitations — without the pressure of cutoff times looming over you.”

The race was founded by Mariah Summers, an avid trail runner and former Keweenaw Mountain Lodge team member, who launched the inaugural event in 2020 with a vision to bring a new style of race to the Upper Peninsula. The name comes from the “Back 9 Trails” — trail systems built on the footprint of the back nine holes of the Lodge’s golf course that were never constructed.

Registration is open at UltraSignup, with spots limited to just 40 participants.

Event Details:

• Date: May 23–24, 2026
• Location: Keweenaw Mountain Lodge, 14252 US Hwy 41, Copper Harbor, Michigan 49918
• Format: 12-hour or 24-hour endurance run; solo or team relay (teams of 2 or 4)
• Loop Distance: 3.7 miles per loop
• Registration Limit: 40 participants
• Registration Deadline: May 22, 2026
• Register at: ultrasignup.com

Runners will have access to a start/finish area centered around the Lodge gazebo, with education center space in the Lodge building available as a warm-up shack. Aid station provisions include electrolytes, water, coffee, and soda, with rustic snacks available throughout the event. Race shirts are available as a pre-order add-on at registration.

Copper Harbor sits at the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, one of Michigan’s most scenic and remote destinations, making the Back 9 Endurance Run a true destination race experience. 

For more information, visit back9endurancerun.com or contact the race team at back9endurance@keweenawresort.com.

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