WSER-qualifying 100-miler through wild Florida longleaf pine and cypress
The Long Haul 100 is a well-supported 100-mile loop race held in Colt Creek State Park outside Lakeland, Florida. Runners complete six 16.7-mile loops through longleaf pine flatwoods, cypress domes, and open grassland vistas — terrain shared with alligators, bald eagles, gopher tortoises, and Sherman's fox squirrels. Three fully staffed aid stations with hot and cold food are accessible every loop, and drop bags can be stocked at the start/finish pavilion and Aid Station 1. Pacers join starting at mile 50. The 32-hour cutoff and mild January temperatures make it a popular target for first 100-mile attempts, while a 30-hour qualifying window makes it one of the most accessible Western States Endurance Run qualifiers on the calendar.
Some ultra experience recommended
Lakeland, FL, United StatesJanuary 16, 2027
| Location | Mile | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
Start Start | 0.0 | 79 ft |
Finish Finish | 100.2 | 105 ft |
Sign in to see cutoffs, crew access, drop bags, and services for every aid station.
Multiple camping options at the venue. Primitive group tent/canopy camping available at Mile 5.5 (Area B). Car camping permitted in Areas A, C, and D. RV camping available via advance reservation directly through Colt Creek State Park — books quickly for MLK weekend (FL residents reserve 11 months out, out-of-state 10 months out).
Race weekend in January at Colt Creek State Park is generally pleasant compared to summer ultramarathon venues. Daytime temperatures typically reach the mid-60s to low 70s°F (18–22°C), while nights cool into the 40s–50s°F (5–10°C). However, cold fronts can occasionally push overnight lows into the low 30s°F — adequate layering is important. Florida's subtropical climate means rain is always possible, and the park's cypress domes can collect standing water after heavy rainfall. Humidity is moderate in January, and some open sections of the course offer little shade during midday.
Florida January weather can swing widely — daytime highs often reach the mid-60s to low 70s°F (18–22°C), but cold fronts can push overnight temps into the low 30s°F (near 0°C)
Rain is possible; cypress dome sections can become muddy and low-lying areas may hold water after significant rainfall
No required gear specified
No recommended gear specified
No reviews for this event yet. Be the first to share your experience!
