Mulberry Mile: Trail Endurance Race

The Legend of the Mulberry Mile

Long before runners traced their footsteps along the banks of the Black Warrior River, the Cherokee and Creek nations traversed these Appalachian ridgelines, calling the river the restless one for the way it carved its will through stone. They believed the Mulberry Fork carried the memory of every traveler who braved its white‑water rapids—stories churned into its currents, grit woven into its roar. Warriors hunted along its banks, believing the river rewarded only those who respected its power and matched its determination.

Today, Whitewater Ranch stands on ground shaped by all those who came before. When runners gather for the Mulberry Mile Ultra‑Marathon, they join a lineage older than any race bib or finish‑line banner. For twelve hours, they follow a trail carved by water, wind, and human will. They climb where hunters once climbed. They descend where warriors once sprinted. They push through fatigue the way its earliest settlers pushed through storms and scarcity. Every footfall echoes the resilience of the people who refused to yield.

And as the sun arcs across the sky and the river’s voice grows louder in the quiet moments between breaths, runners feel what the elders once taught: the Mulberry Mile does not test you to break you. It tests you to reveal you. Those who brave the challenge do not simply compete in a race. They step into a story that began long before them—one written in white water, red clay, and the unshakable spirit on the banks of the Mulberry Fork of the Black Warrior River.

Race Format

Whether you are a seasoned ultra-runner or new to long distance endurance races, the Mulberry Mile will challenge you with a 12-Hour Open Course format along a scenic 1-Mile loop that runs through Whitewater Ranch and the banks of the Mulberry Fork of the Black Warrior River.

• Event Date: March 27, 2027
  
• Race Time: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  
• Format: 12-Hour Challenge with Solo, 2-Member Team, and 4-Member Team options
  
• Experience: An unforgettable adventure where grit meets glory.
  

How It Works

• Clock: 12-Hour non-stop running clock – 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. You can start any time after the 6:00 AM horn sounds and run until the 6:00 PM cut-off, but only whole loops count.
• Course: Private 1-Mile closed loop on Whitewater Ranch.
• Solo: Complete as many loops on the course as you can/want over the 12-hour time limit.
• Support Crew: All participants receive a 10’x10’ site for hydration, nutrition, recovery, and morale-boosting throughout the race.

Amenities, Features, and Highlights

• SWAG: Custom finisher medal with FREE stamping, crew spot, and a post-race meal.
• Lodging: Tent and car camping sites available for $10: additional lodging nearby.
• Food: A fully stocked aid station on-course: post-race meals provided.
• Awards: Special awards for top individuals and teams in various categories.

Additional Information

Packet Pick-up: March 27th starting at 5:00 AM at RACE HQ Area at Whitewater Ranch.

Race Schedule: Course Open: 6:00 AM, Bell Lap: 5:50 PM, Course Closed: 6:00 PM.

FAQ

• Course Preview: Check out our course preview video on YouTube: Course Preview Video.
• Experience Level: All ages and paces are welcome: join a team or complete loops at your own pace.
• Registration: Yes, registration on race day is available: early registration preferred.
• Parking: Free Participant and Crew parking on-site: $5 for spectators.

For more information and registration, visit the Mulberry Mile Race Page.