“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.”
Helen Keller
Become a “GREAT ONE”
The name Denali originates from the indigenous Koyukon language of the Athabaskan people, who inhabit the interior of Alaska. In Koyukon, “Denali” translates to “the high one” or “the great one,” an apt description for the mountain that ascends to an elevation of 20,310 feet. This name encapsulates the majestic and awe-inspiring essence of the peak, which has long been held in reverence by Native Alaskans.
Races: Denali (20k), Mt. Whitney (14k), Mt Mitchell (7k)
When: TBD
Where: Granite Peak Ski Area, 227200 Snowbird Ave, Wausau, WI 54401
Conveniently nestled in Central Wisconsin, Granite Peak Ski Area is a mere 98 miles from Green Bay, 139 miles from Madison, and 186 miles from both Minneapolis and Milwaukee.
Denali Climb (35 ascents of 585 ft, total 20,400 ft; 16 hr cutoff)
Mt Whitney Climb (25 ascents of 585 ft, total 14,400 ft; 14 hr cutoff)
Mt Mitchell Climb (12 ascents of 600 ft, total 7,200 ft; 11 hr cutoff)
Family Climb (modified ascent; Summer Solstice course)
Here’s the concept in a nutshell: hike up and ride the Comet Express chairlift down, rinse, and repeat until you reach your goal.
*PLEASE UNDERSTAND THIS IS ELEVATION GAIN…NOT DISTANCE*
EVENT DESCRIPTION
You all ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Well, pack your bags and join us in the picturesque city of Wausau, right here in good ol’ Wisconsin. Trust us, you won’t be able to resist the pull of the remarkable surroundings as we unveil a truly exceptional and thrilling NEW event at the historic Granite Peak Ski Resort. And guess what? It’s nestled right within the jaw-dropping Rib Mountain State Park. Get ready to have your breath taken away by the stunning scenery and the invigorating atmosphere that awaits you.
Now, let’s talk about what makes this event truly special. We’ve designed it with one goal in mind: to provide a safe opportunity for all you outdoor enthusiasts to conquer not just one, not two, but three of North America’s most renowned peaks. And boy, do they hold some serious bragging rights! We’re talkin’ the tallest peak in all of North America, the tallest peak in the lower 48 states, and the tallest peak east of the mighty Mississippi. Yep, these iconic destinations carry a whole lot of significance, and we reckon they’ll resonate with folks from coast to coast.
So, grab your hiking boots or trail running shoes and get ready to be amazed. This is your chance to embark on an unforgettable journey, challenge yourself like never before, and create memories that’ll last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary experience. Join us and let’s conquer those peaks together, one step at a time!
What is this event all about? What is the concept of “Everesting“? The concept of Everesting is remarkably straightforward: Select any hill, anywhere in the world, and complete repeats of it in a single activity until you reach an elevation gain of 29,029 ft – mirroring the height of Mt. Everest. This principle can be applied to other renowned mountains as well, which is exactly what we aim to do. Here’s the essence of it: Select one of our iconic mountains and challenge yourself to climb its equivalent height within a specific timeframe.
Hike up the mountain, relish a rewarding and awe-inspiring descent on a high-speed chairlift, then do it all over again. The Comet Express offers a delightful three-and-a-half-minute respite, providing both mental rejuvenation and a break from physical strain. It’s a welcome relief, sparing your joints from excessive impact during descent and ensuring a more satisfying post-race recovery (think of it as gracefully gliding down stairs, minus the soreness!). And if you’re looking to chill a bit after your Comet Express descent, we’ve got you covered at the Historic Chalet for some well deserved support. But be mindful not to linger too long, or you might fall behind on your ascent schedule.
Please note that the Comet Express is a high-speed 6-person chairlift for ascent and a 6-person (every 3rd chairlift) for descent, as per Granite Peak management. It’s important to be aware that there are limited seats available for the descent due to weight restrictions, as the chairlift is primarily designed for transporting skiers uphill rather than downhill. For fairness to all participants and to maintain simplicity and consistency, all athletes must utilize the Comet Express for their descents; hiking down the mountain is not permitted. Well, at least not this year…
What makes this race truly special is its ability to provide an authentic “mountain” experience in the Midwest. No need for extensive travel or excessive expenses. Embrace the impressive course with its twists and turns, and enjoy the unexpected surprises along the way. Plus, don’t miss the chance to ride the exciting six-person, high-speed Comet Express Chairlift, adding an extra element of excitement to your adventure.
Denali Climb (35 ascents of 585 ft, total 20,475** ft; 16 hr cutoff)
Mt Whitney Climb (25 ascents of 585 ft, total 14,625 ft; 14 hr cutoff)
Mt Mitchell Climb (12 ascents of 585 ft, total 7,020 ft; 11 hr cutoff)
** Denali climbers will do a quick 30 ft out & back on first lap
*PLEASE UNDERSTAND THIS IS ELEVATION GAIN…NOT DISTANCE*
Climbers will ascend approximately 585 feet per summit, covering a distance of approximately 0.61 miles or 3200 feet.
Mt. Mitchell’s actual height is 6,684 ft, Mt. Whitney’s is 14,505 ft, and Denali’s towering summit reaches 20,310 ft.
Family Climb (half or full ascent) – This is a non-competitive family fun hike. All hikers will enjoy access to the Comet Express before and after their climb. We kindly request that you yield to hikers participating in competitive divisions.
Experience the exhilaration of Wisconsin’s premier ski facility as you embark on this extraordinary event. Push your limits and discover new levels of achievement through a thrilling combination of hiking and uphill trail running. This race goes beyond physical and mental challenges, offering an opportunity to explore equipment, refine techniques, and develop nutrition strategies for long-distance running and mountain trekking.
RELAY TEAM TEAM INFORMATION: At our event, we believe that groups who play together stay together. Our relay option is straightforward: form a team of 2-4 individuals. Teams can be all-female, all-male, or mixed. There won’t be separate award categories based on age group, number of participants per team, or gender. To clarify, all relay teams will be treated equally, with one winning team per elevation distance. So, it’s winner winner, chicken dinner
Get ready to be spellbound by the jaw-dropping beauty of Wausau, WI where the Granite Peak Ski Resort awaits with its cutting-edge facilities. But it’s not just about the scenery and amenities—it’s about the indomitable spirit of your fellow participants that will leave an everlasting impression. This event will be a rollercoaster of excitement, challenge, and inspiration that will leave you in awe.
When it comes to pre and post-race activities, look no further than the Historic Chalet Bar & Grill. It’s the heartbeat of the event, serving as the central hub where everything happens. From convenient packet pickup to thrilling award ceremonies, and even medical assistance when needed, the Chalet has got you covered. Plus, when the weather takes an unexpected turn, it provides a cozy shelter where you can find solace.
But it’s not just about functionality—the Chalet exudes history and charm. Built back in the 1930s, its authentic stone and wood architecture transport you to a bygone era. And those bay windows? They offer an awe-inspiring view of the majestic mountain, creating the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments with your loved ones.
So, get ready to immerse yourself in an extraordinary experience where nature’s splendor, top-notch amenities, and the welcoming embrace of the Historic Chalet Bar & Grill converge. It’s time to make memories, forge new friendships, and revel in the magic of this remarkable event.
Stay connected and stay in the know on race day by clicking the ACTIVE RESULTS & LAP SPLITS button below. Access real-time results as every participant passes through our state-of-the-art RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) system. Experience the ease and convenience of strategically placed chutes and RFID gate systems located at the base of the Comet Express chairlift.
Rest assured, we employ both “Gun” and “Chip” timing data for all participants, ensuring precise and comprehensive results. While our format remains straightforward, it allows you to focus on the true essence of the race – conquering the distance and reaching the summit.
All race results will be determined based on Gun Time, which serves as the official time for every participant, regardless of their entry time onto the race course. This unified approach guarantees fairness and consistency across rankings and awards.
Stay connected and celebrate the remarkable achievements of each participant through our live and up-to-date results system. Witness the unwavering determination, perseverance, and triumphant moments as they unfold on race day via the live mtn webcams.
ACTIVE RESULTS & LAP SPLITS
LIVE MOUNTAIN BOTTOM & TOP WEBCAM
START OPTIONS
To enhance your event experience and accommodate individual preferences, we have designed a system that caters to both structured and flexible approaches. Each elevation category will have a mass start to ensure organization and fairness. However, we understand that not everyone is focused on overall awards or prefers a rigid schedule. Therefore, we offer the convenience of an open start line throughout the day, allowing you to join the course at a time that suits you best and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
While early starts are not permitted, we recognize that unforeseen circumstances may arise. If necessary, participants have the option to start later than the mass start. It’s important to keep in mind that the course will close promptly at 10pm on Saturday night for all elevation races. This guarantees the safety of all participants and volunteers while providing the seamless execution of the event.
In terms of timing and scoring, our results page will provide you with two times: “Gun Time” and “Chip Time.” Here’s a breakdown of what each term signifies:
- “Gun Time”: This is the official time for all participants, measured from the moment the mass start begins until you cross the finish line. Regardless of when you enter the race course, “Gun Time” is used for determining rankings and awards. It serves as your official recorded time.
- “Chip Time”: This refers to the time recorded from when you personally cross the start line to when you cross the finish line. Although “Chip Time” is not utilized for official rankings or awards, it offers valuable information for individuals who choose to start after the mass start. It allows you to gauge the time it took you to complete the course.
Rest assured that our timing and scoring system will accurately capture both “Gun Time” and “Chip Time,” ensuring a fair and comprehensive representation of your performance.
Race Week Schedule
MONDAY THRU FRIDAY
Course Marking and Race Hub Setup: Onsite the entire week.
FRIDAY
Packet Pickup: 5:00pm-6:00pm
Pre-Race Briefing: 6:00pm-6:30pm Pre Race Briefing and Q&A w/live music and dinner food available at the Historic Chalet. Snacks and drinks provided by COW (not mandatory).
Packet Pickup: 6:30pm-7:00pm
SATURDAY
PACKET PICKUP
- 5:00am-11:00am for Denali, Mt. Whitney and Mt. Mitchell Hill Climb
- 5:00pm 7:00pm for Family Hill Climb
START TIMES
- 6:00am: Denali Hill Climb (35 ascents; 16 hr cutoff)
- 8:00am: Mount Whitney Hill Climb (25 ascents; 14 hr cutoff)
- 11:00am: Mount Mitchell Hill Climb (12 ascents; 11 hr cutoff)
- 7:00pm: Family Hill Climb
Last Climb Cutoff: 9:30pm. No exceptions.
Final Cutoff (Course Closed): 10:00pm on Saturday
Teardown: Sunday all day (yes, we always need help)
ASCENT INFO
Race By Elevations: Denali 20,310 ft, Mount Whitney 14,500 ft, Mount Mitchell 6,684 ft
Course Details: The adventure begins at the mountain’s base, located near the Comet Express chairlift. Participants will embark on a designated trail that spans approximately 3200 feet with approx. 600 feet of elevation gain (per ascent), leading them to the majestic summit of Granite Peak.
The trail offers a mix of topography, from runnable service roads to challenging switchbacks, single track sections, and vertical climbs. Embrace the rugged charm of the rocky and rooty terrain, unleashing your adventurous spirit.
Prepare for an unforgettable twist in your race experience as you embark on a unique adventure. After conquering challenging terrain, enjoy a memorable descent aboard the high-speed 6-person chairlift, the Comet Express.
This scenic ride back to the mountain base provides a moment of respite to catch your breath, appreciate the stunning vistas, and uplift your fellow racers with words of encouragement. Take in the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings, immersing yourself in the natural wonders as you prepare for the next ascent.
The Comet Express chairlift adds an extra dimension of enjoyment to your race, creating an unforgettable experience. Our advanced RFID system ensures accurate tracking of each loop, capturing your achievements as you begin your ascent.
Conquer the curves, embrace the trail’s occasional challenges, and be motivated by fellow runners on the Comet Express. Get ready for an exhilarating journey through a diverse landscape, accompanied by breathtaking vistas. This outdoor adventure promises an unforgettable experience for all participants.
COURSE MARKING
Navigation Excellence: At our events, we strive to provide a navigation experience that is second to none. We take great pride in our commitment to innovation and meticulous attention to detail. Here are the key factors that set us apart from the rest:
- Meticulous Course Markings: Our course leaves no room for confusion. Every step of the way, you’ll find vibrant signage, including clear arrows, stakes, and markers, meticulously placed to guide you. With precision and clarity, our markings ensure you stay on track without any hesitation.
- Intuitive Intersection Markers: At intersections, we prioritize clear directions. Our specially designed markers provide intuitive guidance, ensuring that you know exactly which path to take for your chosen distance. With our markers, there’s no need to second-guess or consult maps—you can trust them to lead you in the right direction.
- Innovative Reflective Markings: In races held during low-light conditions, we prioritize visibility. Our reflective markings are crafted with high-grade materials that capture even the slightest glimmers of light. As darkness descends, these markings come alive, effortlessly guiding you along the course.
- Unparalleled Expertise: With years of event organizing experience, we have amassed valuable knowledge and expertise in crafting navigational experiences that strike the perfect balance between challenge and enjoyment. Our dedicated team continuously analyzes and refines our navigation techniques, guaranteeing that you can navigate the course confidently and effortlessly.
- Emphasizing Personal Responsibility: While we are committed to offering outstanding navigation support, we also believe in cultivating a culture of personal responsibility among our participants. We encourage all runners to remain attentive, stay aware of their surroundings, and make informed decisions while on the trail. By promoting individual accountability, we create a safer and more fulfilling experience for each and every participant.
Our events are designed to provide you with a navigation experience that is smooth, inventive, and stress-free. We take great pride in being at the forefront of navigation techniques, and we are thrilled to offer you an unmatched experience. Here’s what you can anticipate:
- Yellow Caution Tape: At open intersections, we secure the area with distinctive yellow caution tape, clearly marking off any potential hazards.
- Yellow Arrows: Look out for yellow arrows strategically placed on short wooden stakes close to the ground, foliage, gates, etc. These arrows serve as your guide along the course, eliminating the need for navigation or map usage.
- Confidence Markers: Throughout the course, you’ll find hundreds of confidence markers. These markers act as additional reassurance, keeping you on the right track and boosting your confidence as you progress.
- Caution Tape as a Bulwark: Please never cross caution tape. Although we typically keep it on the ground, it serves as a protective guardrail at open intersections, guiding you safely along the designated path.
- Reflective Markings: All our markings feature high-grade reflectors and bright colors. This ensures that the course remains easily visible and navigable, even in low light conditions.
We are committed to providing you with a well-marked and enjoyable racing adventure. Trust in our course markings, embrace the challenge, and celebrate your accomplishments on the mountain!
AID STATION INFO
Personalized Aid Station Experience: Dedicated volunteers at the aid stations are there to support and cater to your needs. When you arrive, expect a warm welcome and tailor-made service. Our aid stations will be manned by experienced athletes and adventures who possess a deep understanding of your requirements, perhaps even anticipating your needs before you even express them. We’ll aim NOT to spoil you (y’all get that that when your race is complete) or excessively delay you, but rather to provide the essential support for your body and mind to function at its optimal capacity, ensuring a safe and successful journey towards your goals.
During this event, we have made thorough arrangements to provide comprehensive aid stations at the base and summit. These aid stations have been carefully organized to meet all your requirements and provide complete support throughout the event.
Our well-stocked stations will offer a wide variety of delicious snacks, both savory and sweet, along with ample ice, electrolyte supplements, and refreshing drinks. Additionally, there will be a basic aid station positioned midway through the course, offering fluids, ice, and packaged snacks. This station serves as a brief respite, providing moral support and a safe haven in case of adverse weather or medical assistance. With the course being less than a mile long, you will have numerous opportunities to receive the care and support you deserve throughout the event.
- Nutrient-packed Selection: Our aid station’s nutritious offerings, are carefully curated to cater to the unique demands of hiking, trail running, and endurance athletics. From energy bars and gels to fresh fruits, trail mix, and protein-rich snacks, we ensure there’s something for everyone to refuel and replenish their energy reserves.
- Hydration Haven: Staying hydrated is essential during any race, and our aid stations provide an oasis of refreshment. You’ll find a variety of hydrating options, including water, electrolyte-infused drinks, and perhaps even some surprise thirst-quenching concoctions to keep you going strong.
Prepare yourself for a personalized aid station experience and indulge in the mountainside feast that awaits you. We take pride in delivering exceptional support and delectable offerings that will fuel your journey to the finish line.
VOLUNTEERS
We deeply value and appreciate the crucial role that volunteers play in making events a success. Without their dedicated support, these types of events would not be possible, and we are immensely grateful for your contribution. Your presence will bring a personal touch and helps participants make their race experience truly memorable.
As a volunteer, we want to ensure that you have a rewarding and enjoyable time while assisting the runners in achieving their goals and dreams. Here are some of the benefits you can expect:
- Coverage of park entry fees and camping fees (if applicable to your volunteer role)
- Provision of food during your volunteering shift
- Volunteer shirt, hat, race swag, and other tokens of appreciation
- Opportunities to create lasting memories and forge meaningful connections
- Access to all the necessary gear and resources to effectively fulfill your assigned tasks
- Exchange of volunteer hours for future race entries, allowing you to participate in our events
We always have a need for volunteers, particularly in areas such as packet pickup, aid stations, teardown, and other fun tasks, in service of your fellow runners. Your support in these key areas helps ensure the smooth execution of the event and enhances the experience for all participants.
Join our team of our “fun” and dedicated volunteers and be a part of the magic that unfolds during our races. Your contribution is invaluable, and we look forward to working together to create unforgettable moments for both runners and volunteers alike.
SWAG & OTHER GOODIES
Experienced and Reliable Course Markings: Rest assured, our course markings are top-notch, ensuring you stay on track and eliminating any worries of getting lost.
Unparalleled Staff and Volunteer Support: Our dedicated team of staff and volunteers will be there every step of the way, providing you with the support you need. You might even make new friends at the aid stations or finish line!
Cool Finish Line Atmosphere: After crossing the finish line, you can unwind in a laid-back environment at the fabulous Historic Chalet Bar and Grill, with live music and far-out fire features to be enjoyed with past and future friends.
Delicious Food Options: At the finish line, you can expect a variety of mouthwatering foods from the Historic Chalet Bar and Grill.
Awesome Gear: Our race swag is designed to impress. You’ll receive high-quality gear that you’ll be excited to find in your closet and eager to wear! Along with a unique and pride-worthy medal that reflects the spirit of the event.
Swag Exchange and Purchase: If you’re not satisfied with the swag item you received, we offer a swag exchange on Saturday after the final Packet Pickup is completed. You can swap your item for another available option. Additionally, if you love all the swag items, you can purchase the additional items as well. This exchange and purchase process will take place at the COW Packet Pickup Tent. Please keep in mind that shirt colors may occasionally change due to shipping and fulfillment challenges. In such cases, we may need to adjust the design colors accordingly.
However, rest assured that the design will be visually appealing, and the shirt itself will be of excellent quality. Get ready for an extraordinary race experience filled with remarkable perks and unforgettable moments!
CREWS & PACERS
Crews can provide assistance only at designated Aid Stations. Please note that receiving any form of support, such as food, drink, clothing, or any items, outside the designated aid station or drop bag zone, will result in disqualification (DQ). It is crucial that you communicate this information to your friends and family to ensure compliance with the race rules and maintain fair competition. Pacers are not permitted for this event.
DIRECTIONS TO EVENT
The Race Hub will be located inside the Historic Chalet at the base of Granite Peak at the following address:
Granite Peak Ski Resort 227200 Snowbird Ave Wausau, WI, 54401
For those seeking smaller towns nearby, Merrill, Abbotsford, and Marshfield are in close proximity. If you prefer larger cities, Eau Claire, Stevens Point, and Green Bay are the closest options.
To streamline your experience, the Granite Peak Resort fee is included in your registration. This means that upon entering the facility, runners will not have to pay separately. The fee covers parking, access to facility amenities, and the convenience of riding the Comet Express.
LODGING
Please note that there are no camping or lodging accommodations available at Granite Peak Ski Resort. However, we recommend visiting the “Stay in Wausau” page on the Granite Peak website for a list of lodging partners in the Wausau area. These partners offer a range of accommodation options to suit your needs during your visit to the resort. Whether you prefer hotels, motels, or other lodging establishments, you’ll find a variety of choices to ensure a comfortable stay in the vicinity of Granite Peak Ski Resort.
AWARDS
For our inaugural year, we are introducing a range of awards to celebrate the achievements of our participants. The top three male and female finishers will receive recognition, as well as the top Masters male and female (aged 50 and above). No age group awards.
To make the awards even more special, we will present unique, handcrafted prizes at the finish line to the top overall winners in each climb. These one-of-a-kind awards are a reflection of our commitment to creating a fun and memorable experience for all participants.
More ways to get the scoop
Discovering additional information and seeking guidance is made easy with the following options:
- Accessing More Information: Expand your knowledge and gain further insights by exploring additional resources. Our website is a treasure trove of valuable information, providing detailed descriptions, FAQs, and important updates regarding the event.
- Seeking Expert Advice: If you have specific questions or require personalized assistance, our we are here to help. Feel free to reach out to us via email or phone, and we’ll gladly provide the guidance and information you need.
- Engaging with the Community: Join a fun community of participants, volunteers, and enthusiasts on Facebook. Here, you can connect with like-minded individuals, share experiences, and access a wealth of advice and recommendations.
Embrace the opportunity to gather more information and seek guidance to ensure a seamless and fulfilling experience. We are here to support you every step of the way.