The Austin Falls Ultra is a premier trail running event held in the stunning McKinney Falls State Park, just minutes from the vibrant city of Austin, Texas. This challenging and picturesque race offers runners of all levels the opportunity to explore the rugged beauty of the Texas Hill Country through a series of distances ranging from a 5K to a 50K ultramarathon.
Event Overview
The Austin Falls Ultra takes place on April 27, 2024, and features the following race distances:
| Distance | Start Time |
|---|---|
| 50K | 7:00 AM |
| 10K, 20K, 30K | 7:30 AM |
| 5K | 8:00 AM |
Runners can choose from a variety of distances to suit their skill level and training, making the Austin Falls Ultra an accessible event for both seasoned ultrarunners and those new to the sport.
Course Description
The Austin Falls Ultra course is a true test of endurance and technical skill, as it winds through the rugged terrain of the Texas Hill Country. Runners will traverse a network of technical single-track trails, navigating through lush green foliage, rolling hills, and diverse scenery.
The course features a variety of challenging elements, including:
- Terrain: Technical single-track trails with roots, rocks, and wooden bridges
- Elevation: Rolling hills and gradual climbs throughout the course
- Water Crossings: Possible water crossings of the falls, depending on recent rainfall
One of the highlights of the course is the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the cool pools of Onion Creek after the race, a popular post-race activity for participants.
Registration and Fees
Registering for the Austin Falls Ultra is easy and affordable. The entry fee starts at $45 for the lowest or early registration tier, making it an accessible event for runners of all budgets.
Registration for the 2025 edition of the Austin Falls Ultra will open soon, so be sure to mark your calendars and secure your spot early to take advantage of the best rates.
Why Choose the Austin Falls Ultra?
The Austin Falls Ultra at McKinney Falls State Park offers a unique and unforgettable trail running experience for both seasoned ultrarunners and those new to the sport. Here are a few reasons why this event should be on your radar:
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Stunning Scenery: The Texas Hill Country is renowned for its natural beauty, and the Austin Falls Ultra course takes runners through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region, including the stunning McKinney Falls.
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Technical Challenge: The course’s technical single-track trails, roots, and rocks provide a true test of a runner’s skill and agility, making it a rewarding challenge for those seeking a more technical trail running experience.
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Accessibility: With a range of distances available, the Austin Falls Ultra caters to runners of all levels, from the 5K to the 50K ultramarathon, ensuring that everyone can find a distance that suits their abilities.
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Post-Race Refreshment: After the race, participants can cool off and relax in the refreshing pools of Onion Creek, a perfect way to unwind and celebrate their accomplishments.
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Proximity to Austin: The event’s location in McKinney Falls State Park, just minutes from downtown Austin, makes it easily accessible for runners from the city and surrounding areas, as well as those visiting from further afield.
Conclusion
The Austin Falls Ultra at McKinney Falls State Park is a must-attend event for any trail running enthusiast or tour planner looking to experience the best of the Texas Hill Country. With its technical single-track trails, stunning scenery, and range of distances, this race offers a truly unforgettable challenge and adventure for runners of all levels.
References
- https://www.ultraexpeditions.com/events
- https://www.letsdothis.com/us/e/austin-falls-ultra-198203
- https://www.runguides.com/event/19010/austin-falls-ultra
- https://gotrail.run/en/race/austin-falls-ultra
- https://trailrunner.com/event/austin-falls-ultra/