Dancing Rock 50k

On Sunday, December 22, at 5:00 a.m., get ready to run a very special course—The Dancing Rock Run and Dancing Rock 50k. This course revives a race created by Tony Godino and Dave Cope around the time the Loop was invented but adds a whole lot more. 50k runners will first complete a perimeter loop, then run the Dancing Rock 12.5k forwards, then backward, and follow up with the marked loop of Green+. The 12.5k “classic” starts at 8:00 and makes one loop of the course. Or make it a double for a 25k run. classic Dancing Rock Run 7.8 miler.

Stage 1: Perimeter Loop Starts Promptly at 5:00 a.m.

Complete perimeter loop as shown on the map, approximately 12 miles, and return to your vehicle which will serve as your aid station. You do not need to wait for the main group—continue onto stage 2 when you’re ready. Everyone is responsible for their own aid at their vehicles. Note that the perimeter loop will be counterclockwise this year.

Stage 2: Start the Dancing Rock 12.5k course clockwise.

Run the Dancing Rock 12.5k Course. Legacy GPX and Legacy KML files for this section are posted to help you navigate. I will drop a book at Dancing Rock on the morning of the run. Runners, tear out the next page in the book as proof you’ve made it to that point and bring it to me or send a photo.

Stage 3: Reverse direction on the Dancing Rock 12.5k course

Run the Classic Dancing Rock Course in the reverse direction following all flags and bushwhack. Tear a second page from the book at Raven Rocks

Stage 4: Complete the final loop

Complete the final loop of the course heading up Green and around, finally ending through the swamp trail.

This is not a race. There are no prizes. The winner only gets bragging rights ad some great memories. Bring a change of clothes to keep warm and hang out after the run anyway. Note: the trail near Michigan Road (often called the “Swamp Trail”) now passable. You’ll get your shoes wet and muddy, but that trail earns its name.

You can view and print the Classic 12k map here ››