LoVit Trail Marathon 2025

• Scenic and challenging course with rocky climbs and smooth trails along Lake Ouachita.
• Registration required, with donations appreciated to cover costs.
• Aid stations provide essentials; 100k has 6 stations, 100-mile has 10.
• Safety pacers allowed in certain sections; strict time limits enforced.
• Carry water and light source; trail marked with blazes and flags.

Experience the LoVit Trail Marathon, a captivating race set for December 7, 2024, at Lake Ouachita, Arkansas. This 42.195 km trail run offers an exhilarating blend of rough, rocky climbs and smooth pine bed paths, all with stunning views of Lake Ouachita. Expect a challenging course with potential creek crossings, adding an adventurous twist to your marathon experience.

Organized by local trail enthusiasts Rachel and Dustin Speer, the event promises robust support and a strong community vibe. Beyond the thrill of the run, your participation aids trail development in the Ouachita National Forest and the greater Hot Springs area, making every step count toward preserving and enhancing these beautiful trails. Join this unique race that combines scenic beauty, a supportive atmosphere, and a commitment to community and trail sustainability.

For the LoVit Trail Marathon in Mount Ida, Arkansas, in late February, expect temperatures between 40-61°F (4-16°C). Conditions can include moderate precipitation and overcast skies about half the time. Prepare for light winds and enjoy dry to comfortable humidity levels, making it ideal for layered clothing and sturdy footwear.

Embark on a thrilling adventure with the LoVit Trail Marathon, a challenging yet breathtaking journey through the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail near Mount Ida, Arkansas. This course offers runners a diverse mix of single-track trails, rough rocky climbs, and smooth pine bed paths, with minimal pavement to disrupt the natural experience. As you traverse the ruggedly beautiful Ouachita National Forest, you'll encounter rocky, rolling hills and ridge lines along the southern rim of Lake Ouachita.

Prepare for significant elevation changes, especially the steep climbs and descents like the ascent up Hickory Nut Mountain. Along the way, you'll pass through key landmarks such as the East Cove Wilderness Pavilion, the starting point, and the Avery Recreational Area, the turnaround for the long-distance challenges. Marvel at the Emerald Ridge's moss-covered rock outcroppings and catch breathtaking views over Blakey Dam.

This course is known for its technical demands, including rocky sections and multiple wet creek crossings, particularly challenging on the trail's east end. Alongside these obstacles, you'll be rewarded with stunning lakeside vistas and historical sites, like old quartz pits and remnants of a moonshiner’s still. With strategically placed aid stations to support you throughout, the LoVit Trail Marathon is a true test of endurance and skill, offering an unforgettable experience amidst the natural beauty of the Ouachita landscape.

Mount Ida, Arkansas, offers a captivating mix of natural beauty and cultural charm, perfect for visitors attending the LoVit Trail Marathon. Nestled in Montgomery County, the area is easily accessible via Highway 270, making it a convenient destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Beyond the marathon, Lake Ouachita beckons with its crystal-clear waters, ideal for fishing, boating, and soaking in scenic views. Known as the "Quartz Crystal Capital of the World," Mount Ida invites you to dig for your own treasures at local quartz mines or browse the unique rock shops scattered along the highways. For those who love the great outdoors, the Ouachita National Forest offers a wealth of hiking trails and picturesque spots like Little Missouri Falls.

Cultural experiences abound with the Heritage House Museum of Montgomery County, where you can delve into the area's rich history. If your visit coincides with one of Mount Ida's vibrant festivals, such as the Quartz, Quilts, and Crafts Festival in the fall or the Good Ol' Days Festival in May, you'll get a taste of the local community spirit. Don't miss the lively music performances at Front Porch Stage, a staple of the town's cultural scene. For a more laid-back experience, explore the summer farmers' markets offering a range of local produce and crafts.

Mount Ida promises a warm welcome, combining the thrill of the LoVit Trail Marathon with a rich tapestry of local attractions and cultural delights that make for an unforgettable visit.