What Makes MOR Unique?
One of the defining features of the Michigan Outback Relay is that no two years are exactly the same. While we may revisit past routes, we continuously incorporate new trails and terrain to keep the experience fresh—challenging both first-time runners and seasoned participants alike.
The race atmosphere is what you make of it. Some teams come to compete, pushing themselves to claim victory in their division and take home the traveling trophy. Others embrace the journey, focusing on camaraderie, adventure, and the personal challenge the race presents.
A unique and growing tradition is the rise of second-generation teams—where children of past participants are stepping up to carry on their parents’ legacy, keeping the spirit of the race alive.
As Michigan’s oldest and longest team relay event, the Michigan Outback Relay continues to celebrate endurance, teamwork, and the thrill of exploration.
Course Description for MOR 2026
Day 1: Grayling to Weber Lake
Start will begin next to Grayling HS on an ORV road. That will take us to the Shore to Shore Trail where we will spend a few legs trying not to get too badly lost. That will connect to the luxurious North Country Trail which will weave us through the Jordan Valley and send us north toward Weber Lake State State Forest Campground for the finish. Day 1 will have a little bit of everything. Some sand to start, some climbs as we pass through the Jordan Valley, and plenty of scenery as we traverse the NCT.
Day 2: High Country Pathway
You didn’t ask for it, but we delivered anyway. The 30+ years of the relay has always dabbled with parts of the HCP. So, we decided to give you the whole show in a single day of the relay. We will start from Onaway HS and make our way to the trail. Once there, we will spend a whole day with chest high ferns, never ending climbs, swamps, more swamps, questionable footbridges, and inconsistently marked trail! They say that there are bears in this area, but we’ve only seen one bear. Lets not be dramatic.
Day 3: Onaway to Rogers City
We will start just west of Onaway like last year, and head southeast as we make our way to Rogers City. We will still see some trails, some back roads, including single track ORV trails. Things could get a bit sandy on some legs. This will transition to fast running on the dirt roads, and then eventually the scenic glory leg running along Lake Huron. Finish will be on the beach in Rogers City.
More specifics will be sent to captains after registration has concluded on June 1. However, please reach out to us at MichiganOutbackRelay@gmail.com if you have any questions!
