COURSE DESCRIPTION

SOS is an eight-stage wilderness adventure race that includes one cycling segment, four trail running segments, and three open water lake swims.

Each segment is point-to-point. The first segment (bike) requires a crew member to collect the participant's bike at the bike-to-run transition and supply any gear required for the run/swim segments. The remaining seven segments are unsupported and require participants to carry-in/carry-out any needed supplies.

Water and food are provided at points on the course.

STAGE 1: BIKE 30 MILES
Starting line is at the Ulster County Fair Grounds.
First ten miles are mostly flat.
Second ten miles are rolling, with elevation gain.
Third five miles are flat and rolling with last part down hill.
Final five miles are a climb into the Shawangunk Mountains.

STAGE 2: RUN 4.5 MILES
The bike-to-run transition takes place at the Lower Awosting parking lot in Minnewaska State Park. Athletes will meet their designated Transition Person here to leave their bike and prepare for the run/swim stages. Athletes will run from this point to the far side of Lake Awosting.
Elevation gain of 489 feet.

STAGE 3: SWIM 1.1 MILES
At "Awosting In" Athletes will be directed to cross a timing mat. Athletes then proceed down the rocks into the cool waters of Lake Awosting. The swim is the length of the lake along the north shore. Kayakers and Paddle Boarders will guide the way.

STAGE 4: RUN 5.5 MILES
Exit Lake Awosting and proceed up and over the mountain to Lake Minnewaska. Pass breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley from multiple vantage points.
Elevation gain of 565 feet

STAGE 5: SWIM 0.5 MILES
Athletes approach the swim across Lake Minnewaska after descending the Blue Trail and rounding the end of the lake via the Red Trail. Athletes enter the water at the timing mat, where volunteers help direct access point. Swim across Lake Minnewaska along the east shore. A buoy-supported guideline will show the way.

STAGE 6: RUN 8.0 MILES
Athletes will exit Lake Minnewaska and proceed up the rock steps. Spectators will cheer you along as you embark on the longest run of the SOS. Proceed along a series of carriage trails to Lake Mohonk via Trapps Bridge. Water/food stops at miles 2, 4, and 6.

STAGE 7: SWIM 0.5 MILES
Athletes will descend a small downward slant into the serene waters of Lake Mohonk. The final swim will be along the east shore. As you sight the course and look for the finish, Athletes will hear the cheering crowd at Mohonk Out. Kayakers and Buoys will guide your way.

STAGE 8: RUN 0.7 MILES
Exit Lake Mohonk and proceed UP the short, but steady climb to the finish at the Skytop tower and the Surviver Line. On your way, Athletes will hear the Survivor Line announcer and more cheering crowds waiting your arrival. At the final climb up the stairs, you will be met by a final sprint to claim your title as an SOS Survivor!