Runners looking for a new challenge will have the opportunity to test themselves against one of the Lake of the Ozarks area’s most recognizable landmarks during the inaugural Thunder Mountain Challenge on Saturday, October 3, 2026.

The brand-new event will take place at Bridal Cave and Thunder Mountain Park near Camdenton. Rather than following a traditional road or trail course, participants will repeatedly descend and climb Thunder Mountain on a steep route between the Thunder Mountain Park Event Center and the lower portion of Bridal Cave Road.

Each completed climb will include approximately 300 feet of elevation gain.

“The Thunder Mountain Challenge is unlike any other running event in the area,” Race Director John Shelby said. “It is simple, steep, and incredibly challenging. Whether someone chooses the 5K, three-hour race, or six-hour race, reaching the top of Thunder Mountain will be something they have earned.”

Participants may choose from three race options:

  • The Bridal 5Kave requires runners to complete three descents and three climbs of Thunder Mountain.
  • 3-Hour Challenge competitors will attempt to complete as many full climbs as possible before time expires.
  • 6-Hour Challenge competitors will attempt to complete as many full climbs as possible before time expires.

All races will begin and finish at the Thunder Mountain Park Event Center at the top of the mountain. An aid station will provide runners with water, electrolyte drinks, and access to restrooms. A real-time scoreboard will track completed climbs throughout the event.

Power hiking is expected to be a major part of the challenge, particularly as competitors accumulate additional trips up the mountain.

Bridal Cave is serving as the presenting sponsor of the inaugural event. Every registered runner, along with family members and friends, will receive 25 percent off a guided tour of Bridal Cave by showing the runner’s race bib. The discount may be used during race weekend or on any other date Bridal Cave is open through the remainder of 2026.

Located at the bottom of Thunder Mountain, Bridal Cave is one of Missouri’s premier natural attractions and has welcomed visitors to the Lake of the Ozarks for generations.

The Thunder Mountain Challenge will begin at 7 a.m. and is limited to 75 total participants across all three race options.

Registration is open through UltraSignup: ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=140805