50K Run

Challenging, but more manageable than the 50 mile run, and all except 1.5 miles is run on the same beautiful, backcountry trails. Here’s some comments from 2018 runners:

I just wanted to say thank you for the event this weekend. It was one of my favorite races I have ever done and definitely my favorite ultra and had the best volunteers I have ever had the pleasure of interacting with, particularly the HURL group at the out and back.

It’s awesome!!! beautiful & challenging course & great volunteers & aid stations.

This is a great race; scenery, challenge, well organized…

All races start and finish at the Willard Creek Trailhead at the end of Forest Service Road 4014. Primitive camping is available. There are no amenities other than porta-potties, which will be delivered sometime the day before the race. Allow 45 minutes driving time from Helena to the race start. See Directions tab for driving directions.

Race start is 7:00 am. The finish cut off time is 10:00 pm. (15 hour time limit).

This run is primarily through unforgiving, remote, and spectacular Montana back country. Experience real Montana…Leave Civilization Behind.

The course is approximately 32.7 mile long. 88% non-motorized technical trail, 12% rough and rocky jeep/ATV trail. Click on the image below for a downloadable course map.

Approximately 7,875 feet of elevation gain. Elevation ranges between 5,300 feet and 8,000 feet above sea level. Click on the image below for a downloadable course profile.

Absolutely no pavement. Only forests, meadows, rocks, and cold, clear creeks to splash through.

Chase Deer, Elk, Moose, Bear, Coyote, Mountain Goats, and Badgers…maybe get chased by them.

The 15 hour cut off time is allowed to match the 50 mile finish time. Take your time, enjoy the great Montana outdoors.

Low key, friendly, laid back Montana atmosphere. If you want a big production, this event is probably not for you. Once you finish, we invite you to hang out in the finish area, enjoy post-race food and drinks, and share your race experience. Here’s some comments from 2018 runners:

I ran Leadville and I found you guys were better organized, had a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and had far superior trails. You put on a really top-notch event, and have a great group of volunteers and participants.

For the last two years, I have run the 52k. I really like the race; it has become one of my favorites. I plan to run it next year. The race is challenging, but not too extreme or rugged. The area is beautiful. I like the fact that it’s a low-key race.