CAMDENTON, Mo. — Runners looking for a new challenge will have the opportunity to test themselves against one of the Lake area's most recognizable landmarks this fall.
The inaugural Thunder Mountain Challenge will take place Saturday, Oct. 3, at Bridal Cave and Thunder Mountain Park near Camdenton, sending runners repeatedly up and down Thunder Mountain.
Rather than following a traditional road or trail course, participants will descend and climb a steep route between the Thunder Mountain Park Event Center and the lower portion of Bridal Cave Road. Each completed climb includes approximately 300 feet of elevation gain.
“The Thunder Mountain Challenge is unlike any other running event in the area,” Race Director John Shelby said. “It is simple, steep and incredibly challenging. Whether someone chooses the 5K, three-hour race or six-hour race, reaching the top of Thunder Mountain will be something they have earned.”
Runners can choose from three challenges. The Bridal 5Kave requires three descents and three climbs of Thunder Mountain, while competitors in the three-hour and six-hour races will attempt to complete as many full climbs as possible before time expires.
All three races begin and finish at the Thunder Mountain Park Event Center at the top of the mountain. An aid station will offer water, electrolyte drinks, and access to restrooms, while a real-time scoreboard will track completed climbs throughout the event.
Organizers expect power hiking to become a major part of the challenge, particularly as runners accumulate more trips up the mountain.
Bridal Cave is the presenting sponsor of the inaugural event. Registered runners, along with their family members and friends, can receive 25% off a guided Bridal Cave tour by showing the runner’s race bib. The discount can be used during race weekend or any other date Bridal Cave is open through the end of 2026.
Located at the bottom of Thunder Mountain, Bridal Cave has welcomed generations of visitors to Lake of the Ozarks.
The Thunder Mountain Challenge begins at 7 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, and participation is limited to 75 runners across all three race options.
Registration is available at ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=140805.
For more information, visit HaHaRacingEvents.com or BridalCave.com.
