Ready to Push Your Limits?

We’re excited to announce the return of one of the toughest endurance running events in the Midwest — the Rocket Endurance Hill Climb!

How It Works

The Rocket Endurance Hill Climb is a 6-hour race where individuals and teams complete as many laps as possible on a grueling mountain circuit.

Course Overview:

• Starts at the base of Marquette Mountain Resort
• Climbs up Rocket to the summit of Upper Rocket
• Descends through Upper Rocket and crosses Weasel Gulch
• Loops back to the base to begin again

Each circuit is about 1.5 miles long, with over 500 feet of vertical gain, a 60% grade on parts of the uphill, and a rugged 5,000-foot descent. It’s steep. It’s wild. It’s not for the faint of heart.

Relay Teams:

• 2 or 4 person teams
• One runner on course at a time
• Runners must collect a token at the summit and return it to the base before the next teammate can go

Registration Details

Register Online by July 11th at 4 PM

• Individual: $30
• 2 Person Team: $60
• 4 Person Team: $120

Late registration (if available) can be done in person on July 11th, during packet pickup (3:00–5:00 PM in the Mountain Shop):

• Individual: $40
• 2 Person Team: $80
• 4 Person Team: $160
  

** No race day registration
** No refunds

Schedule of Events

Friday, July 11th:

• 3:00–5:00 PM – Packet Pickup @ Mountain Shop
  

Saturday, July 12th:

• 8:30–9:30 AM – Packet Pickup (Staging Tent)
• 9:30 AM – Racer Meeting
• 10:00 AM – Mass Start
• 5:00 PM – Awards Ceremony @ Tbar Patio

Spectator Info

Spectators are welcome and base area access is free!

Lift sightseeing tickets are available for those who want a bird’s-eye view.
Hiking spectators must purchase a Mountain Access Pass (or have a Summer Season Pass).

After Party

The real climb might be over by 5 PM, but the fun doesn’t stop there!
Enjoy a celebration at the base throughout the day and into the evening:

• Live Music Under the Tent
• Outdoor Bar & Concessions
• Air-conditioned comfort inside the Tbar
• Awards at 5 PM

What to Know Before You Go

• Aid stations with water will be at the base and summit
• The race happens rain or shine (delays possible due to lightning)
• Prepare for all kinds of weather — it’s the U.P. in July, which could mean sun, heat, rain, or all three
• Expect mosquitoes, rugged trails, mud, rocks, sand, and sun — dress smart, bring bug spray, and watch your footing

Are You Tough Enough?

This isn’t just a race — it’s a test of toughness, endurance, and maybe a little insanity. Whether you’re an experienced mountain runner or just looking for a wild challenge, the Rocket Endurance Hill Climb is calling.

So grab your friends, lace up your shoes, and show us what you’re made of.

Climb. Conquer. Repeat.