Rock River Canyon 50K

Rock River Canyon is a magnificent route through high country and remote river valleys south of Munising, Michigan. The course begins at the Valley Spur Lodge and follows a rarely followed section of the North Country Trail to AuTrain and then on to the Rock River Canyon Wilderness. Runners then turn back for an eastward retrace back to Valley Spur. 

Runners who want to immerse themselves in the wild backcountry of the Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on Zen quality single track have now found their experience. 

The 50K features 26 miles of single track with the remainder on dirt forest roads Runners will enjoy frequent but not overwhelming ascents and descents. I would describe it as highly runnable and even a fast course for the experienced ultra runner. It's moderate, non-technical terrain make it an ideal step up for the marathoner wishing to try their first ultra.

The 27K option traces the first 8.6 miles of the 50K course to AuTrain Forest Aid before returning back to Valley Spur Lodge.

Great Lakes Endurance operates trail running events in the Great Lakes Region since 2000. Founded by local trail runner Jeff Crumbaugh, as of the 2026 season, the events will be operated by Aravaipa Running. We hope you'll join us for some spectacular and wild trail running races in Michigan!