No Man
Race facts
- Start time
- 8:00 AM
- Distances
- 50K, 25K, 7.78 Miler
- Terrain
- Trail
- Elevation gain
- 38 m
- Cutoff
- 10 hour
- Organizer
- No Man's Land Trail Run
- Registration
- Closed
From the official race website, checked 2026-10-15. Official page
External Event
Distance
6.2 mi
Pace
All paces
Terrain
Trail
Difficulty
Intermediate
About this run
The No Man's Land Trail Run takes place in Lake Charles, Louisiana, tracing the historical "No Man's Land" border. This area, once a disputed territory between French and Spanish claims, later served as a refuge for pirates like Jean Lafitte. The race course winds through Sam Houston Jones State Park, following the Calcasieu River, which historically marked the eastern edge of this lawless territory. New for 2026, the event offers a "No-Medal" option to reduce costs, with an optional medal available for purchase during registration. All participants will receive a newly designed enamel pin representing the year's theme, with a "Gator with the text 'Here, the Ground Bites Back'" for 2026. Returning runners can collect these pins to adorn a lanyard. The course has been updated for 2026, eliminating road sections and focusing entirely on park trails. Runners will navigate a looped course around the park's perimeter, including sections of the Riverwalk Trail, Eagle Scout Trail, Purple Haze Extension Trail, Nature Conservancy Trail, Bailey's Bender, Old Blue Trail, Blue Connector, and Cabin Trail, returning to the start via the river.
Who it's for
This event is suitable for trail runners of all levels, from beginners looking to experience trail running to experienced trail veterans seeking a challenging and technical course with rolling hills.
What to expect
- Packet pickup is available on Friday, October 16th, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and on race day from 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM at the Sam Houston Jones State Park Pavilion.
- Arrive early and inform park rangers you are there for the race; entry fees for participants will be covered.
- A mandatory pre-race meeting will be held at 7:45 AM, with all races starting at 8:00 AM.
- The course is approximately 8 miles (7.78 miles listed) and features technical single-track trails with roots, twists, turns, and water crossings/bridges.
- Be prepared for rolling hills, with approximately 125 feet of elevation gain and descent per loop.
- Weather in Louisiana in October can be warm and humid; check the forecast and dress accordingly, considering potential water crossings.
Good to know
- The race is held within Sam Houston Jones State Park. Participants' park entry fees will be covered.
- Hydration and food are the runner's responsibility, as pacers and "muling" are not permitted for the 8-mile distance.
- Dogs are allowed in the park on a leash, but must be leashed at all times.
- Headphones are permitted, but participants should remain courteous to other park users on the single-track trails.
Typical conditions
For events around October 2026 in Lake Charles, United States: Typical autumn conditions in this region — conditions can change quickly; confirm race-day guidance on the official page.
How to prepare
Trail events reward time on uneven surfaces and hills. Practice footing and bring the shoes and hydration the organizer recommends — details vary by race.
Find races near youGetting there
This event is listed in Lake Charles, United States. Confirm the exact start venue, parking, and transit options on the official registration page.
Frequently asked questions
What is the date of the No Man's Land Trail Run?+
The race is scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2026.
What distances are offered?+
The event offers a 50K, a 25K, and an approximately 8-mile (7.78 Miler) trail run. There is also a new 8 Mile Ruck Division.
Where is the race located?+
The race takes place at Sam Houston Jones State Park in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
What is the course like?+
The 8-mile course is a looped trail run within Sam Houston Jones State Park, featuring technical single-track, roots, twists, turns, water crossings, and rolling hills.
What is the cutoff time?+
There is a 10-hour cutoff for all distances, ending at 6:00 PM.
How do I register?+
Registration is available through the official UltraSignup page: https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=134113
Is registration still open?+
Registration closed on Saturday, October 10, 2026.
Are refunds or transfers available?+
No refunds, rollovers to the next year, or transfers to another person are allowed.
Registration is handled by the official event organizer
Know a local group? Host a community run in Lake Charles
