Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run
US 100-mile ultra race guide 2025 provides comprehensive information about the most challenging and prestigious 100-mile ultramarathons across the United States. Whether you’re an experienced ultrarunner seeking your next challenge or planning your first century race, this complete US 100-mile ultra race guide 2025 covers everything from legendary mountain courses like Western States and Hardrock to accessible beginner-friendly events like Rocky Raccoon and Javelina Jundred.
The Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run is widely regarded as the most prestigious 100-mile ultramarathon in the United States, running from Squaw Valley to Auburn, California through the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains. Founded in 1974, this legendary race follows historic Western States Trail with 18,090 feet of elevation gain and 23,550 feet of descent, featuring extreme heat, river crossings, and challenging terrain that tests the limits of human endurance. Known for its coveted silver and bronze belt buckles awarded to sub-24 and sub-30 hour finishers respectively, Western States maintains an exclusive lottery entry system due to overwhelming demand from elite and recreational ultrarunners worldwide. The race’s rich history includes legendary performances from ultrarunning icons and remains the gold standard against which all other 100-mile events are measured.
Leadville Trail 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Leadville Trail 100 mile endurance run is America’s highest altitude 100-mile ultramarathon, taking place entirely above 9,200 feet in the Colorado Rockies with elevations reaching up to 12,620 feet at Hope Pass. Established in 1983, this legendary race is famous for its brutal twin climbs over Hope Pass and its association with ultrarunning pioneer Ken Chlouber’s motto “you’re better than you think you are.” The race attracts elite athletes and everyday runners alike, all seeking to earn the coveted silver belt buckle for sub-25 hour finishes in one of the sport’s most challenging environments. Leadville’s thin air, steep climbs, and unpredictable mountain weather have cemented its reputation as the ultimate test of high-altitude endurance racing.
Hardrock 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Hardrock 100 mile endurance run is considered the most technically difficult and dangerous 100-mile ultramarathon in the world, traversing the rugged San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado with over 33,000 feet of elevation change. Established in 1992, this invitation-only race requires participants to kiss the Hardrock as they summit each of the 13 peaks above 12,000 feet, creating an almost mystical connection between runner and mountain. With a mandatory four-year qualification system and extremely limited field, Hardrock attracts only the most experienced mountain ultrarunners who are prepared for potential snow, lightning, and treacherous terrain even in July. The race embodies the philosophy of “endurance, wilderness, and the test of oneself in nature,” making it the ultimate badge of honor in high-altitude mountain ultrarunning.
Wasatch Front 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Wasatch Front 100 mile endurance run is one of the most challenging mountain 100-mile races in America, featuring over 26,000 feet of elevation gain through Utah’s spectacular Wasatch Range. Established in 1986, this point-to-point course from Kaysville to Midway traverses alpine terrain with technical single track, stream crossings, and dramatic elevation changes that test every aspect of ultrarunning skill. Known for its tight 36-hour cutoff and unforgiving mountain conditions, Wasatch attracts serious ultrarunners seeking a true test of their abilities in some of the most beautiful yet demanding terrain in the American West. The race’s reputation for being a “tough finisher” has made it a rite of passage for mountain ultrarunners and a stepping stone to races like Hardrock 100.
Angeles Crest 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Angeles Crest 100 mile endurance run is a grueling point-to-point mountain ultramarathon through the San Gabriel Mountains of Southern California, featuring over 20,000 feet of elevation gain and extreme heat challenges. Established in 1986, this race from Wrightwood to Pasadena follows the historic Angeles Crest Highway and mountain trails, testing runners with technical terrain, stream crossings, and temperatures that can exceed 100°F in the canyons. Known for its notorious difficulty and low finish rates, Angeles Crest attracts experienced ultrarunners seeking one of California’s most demanding mountain challenges in a stunning but unforgiving high desert environment. The race has built a reputation as a true survival test, where proper heat management and mountain navigation skills are essential for success.
Vermont 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Vermont 100 mile endurance run is a classic point-to-point trail ultramarathon through the scenic Green Mountains of Vermont, known for its combination of challenging terrain and exceptional organization. Established in 1989, this race from South Woodstock to Woodstock features rolling hills, technical single track, stream crossings, and over 15,000 feet of elevation change through some of New England’s most beautiful forest landscapes. Celebrated for its strong community support, well-stocked aid stations, and the famous post-race barbecue, Vermont 100 has earned a reputation as one of the most runner-friendly events in ultrarunning. The race attracts both competitive runners and those seeking their first 100-mile finish in a supportive, well-managed environment that exemplifies the best of trail ultrarunning culture.
Javelina Jundred 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Javelina Jundred 100 Mile Endurance Run is Arizona’s premier 100-mile ultramarathon, featuring a fast and accessible 15.38-mile loop course through the stunning Sonoran Desert near Phoenix. Established in 1998, this race is famous for its ideal running conditions in late October/early November, spectacular desert scenery with towering saguaro cacti, and exceptional race organization that attracts runners from around the world. Known as one of the fastest 100-mile courses in America, Javelina serves as a popular Boston Qualifier equivalent for ultrarunners and frequently hosts national championship events due to its reliable weather and competitive field. The race combines the natural beauty of McDowell Mountain Regional Park with a festive atmosphere, making it a favorite destination race for both first-time 100-mile runners and seasoned ultrarunners seeking fast times.
Rocky Raccoon 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Rocky Raccoon 100 mile endurance run is Texas’s flagship 100-mile ultramarathon, featuring a relatively flat 20-mile loop course through the beautiful Sam Houston National Forest near Houston. Established in 1995, this winter race is known for its beginner-friendly terrain, excellent organization, and Southern hospitality that attracts runners from across the country seeking their first 100-mile finish. The course winds through scenic pine forests, around pristine lakes, and over gentle rolling hills with minimal elevation gain, making it one of the most accessible 100-mile races in America. Rocky Raccoon has earned a reputation as the premier “first hundred” destination, combining manageable terrain with exceptional aid stations and a festive atmosphere that exemplifies the welcoming spirit of Texas ultrarunning.
Cascade Crest 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Cascade Crest 100 mile endurance run is a challenging point-to-point mountain ultramarathon through Washington’s spectacular Cascade Range, running from Easton to Snoqualmie Pass along pristine wilderness trails. Established in 2003, this race features over 23,000 feet of elevation gain through dense old-growth forests, across alpine meadows, and over mountain passes with stunning views of volcanic peaks. Known for its technical terrain, unpredictable Pacific Northwest weather, and the potential for early season snow even in August, Cascade Crest attracts experienced mountain ultrarunners seeking one of the most beautiful yet demanding courses in America. The race embodies the rugged spirit of Pacific Northwest trail running, combining breathtaking natural beauty with serious logistical and athletic challenges that test every aspect of mountain ultrarunning skill.
Bear 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Bear 100 mile endurance run is a grueling point-to-point mountain ultramarathon traversing the rugged Bear River Mountains along the Utah-Idaho border, known for its reputation as one of the most challenging races in the American West. Held in late September when brutal weather conditions including snow, freezing rain, and sub-zero temperatures are common, this race features over 22,000 feet of elevation gain through remote wilderness terrain with technical single track and exposed alpine sections. The Bear 100’s notorious difficulty and mountain conditions make it a popular second half of the “Wasatch-to-Bear double,” where dedicated mountain ultrarunners attempt both Utah classics in the same season. With its combination of extreme elevation changes, unpredictable late-season weather, and remote mountain wilderness, the Bear 100 has earned its place as a true test of mountain ultrarunning grit and preparation.
Massanutten Mountain Trail 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Massanutten Mountain Trail 100 mile endurance run is a challenging loop course through Virginia’s rugged Shenandoah Valley, known for its relentless rocky terrain and significant elevation changes totaling over 18,000 feet of gain. Held in mid-May, this race features technical single track through the George Washington National Forest with notorious rock gardens, stream crossings, and steep climbs that demand strong hiking skills and mental fortitude. The race’s reputation for being particularly tough on feet and legs due to the constant rocky footing attracts experienced ultrarunners seeking one of the East Coast’s most demanding mountain challenges. With its combination of beautiful Appalachian scenery and punishing technical terrain, Massanutten has earned its place as a premier destination for serious mountain ultrarunners looking to test their grit against Virginia’s unforgiving mountains.
Superior 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Superior 100 mile endurance run is a challenging point-to-point trail ultramarathon along Minnesota’s spectacular North Shore of Lake Superior, known for its rugged terrain, technical single track, and stunning views of America’s largest lake. Held in mid-September, this race features over 13,000 feet of elevation gain through the Superior Hiking Trail with rocky climbs, root-filled descents, and stream crossings that demand strong technical trail running skills. The race’s reputation for unpredictable weather conditions ranging from summer heat to early snow, combined with its remote wilderness sections, attracts experienced ultrarunners seeking one of the Midwest’s most demanding mountain-style challenges. With its combination of breathtaking Lake Superior vistas, challenging technical terrain, and the potential for harsh autumn weather, Superior 100 has earned recognition as the premier ultra distance race in the Great Lakes region.
Burning River 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Burning River 100 mile endurance run is Ohio’s premier ultramarathon, featuring a challenging point-to-point course through the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park and along historic towpaths near Cleveland. Held in late July during peak summer heat and humidity, this race combines rolling single track trails, canal towpaths, and park roads with over 8,000 feet of elevation gain through beautiful forested valleys and alongside the winding Cuyahoga River. Known for its oppressive summer conditions, well-organized aid stations, and strong community support, Burning River attracts ultrarunners from across the Midwest seeking a demanding test in Ohio’s most beautiful natural setting. The race has earned recognition as one of the premier summer ultra challenges in the Great Lakes region, combining historic landscapes with serious athletic demands that test heat tolerance and endurance.
Tahoe Rim Trail 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Tahoe Rim Trail 100 mile endurance run is a spectacular high-altitude loop course around the stunning Lake Tahoe basin, featuring over 17,000 feet of elevation gain through pristine Sierra Nevada wilderness at elevations ranging from 6,300 to 8,900 feet. Held in mid-July, this challenging race combines technical single track, granite ridgelines, and alpine meadows with breathtaking panoramic views of North America’s largest alpine lake and surrounding mountain peaks. Known for its demanding climbs, rocky descents, and potential for extreme weather variations from snow to intense sun, Tahoe Rim Trail attracts experienced mountain ultrarunners seeking one of California’s most scenic yet challenging high-altitude tests. The race has earned recognition as a premier destination ultramarathon, combining world-class natural beauty with serious athletic demands in one of the most spectacular settings in American ultrarunning.
Bighorn 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Bighorn 100 mile endurance run is a challenging high-altitude mountain ultramarathon through the stunning Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming, featuring over 17,000 feet of elevation gain at elevations ranging from 8,000 to 10,600 feet. Held in mid-June, this point-to-point race from Dayton to Sheridan combines technical single track, alpine meadows, and rocky ridgelines with spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and pristine wilderness areas. Known for its potential for extreme weather conditions including snow, lightning, and frigid temperatures even in summer, Bighorn attracts experienced mountain ultrarunners seeking one of the most remote and challenging high-altitude tests in the American West. The race has earned a reputation as a true wilderness adventure, combining breathtaking Rocky Mountain scenery with serious logistical challenges and unpredictable mountain conditions that test every aspect of ultrarunning preparation and mental toughness.
Old Dominion 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Old Dominion 100 mile endurance run is a challenging point-to-point trail ultramarathon through Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, featuring over 14,000 feet of elevation gain along the historic Massanutten Trail and Shenandoah National Park. Established in 1979, this race is one of the oldest 100-mile trail events in America and helped establish the foundation of organized ultrarunning in the Eastern United States during the sport’s formative years. Known for its rugged Appalachian terrain with rocky single track, stream crossings, and demanding climbs through dense hardwood forests, Old Dominion attracts experienced trail runners seeking a true test of East Coast mountain ultrarunning. The race’s rich history and reputation as a “no-frills” event focused purely on the challenge of completing 100 miles through Virginia’s beautiful but unforgiving mountains has made it a rite of passage for serious Eastern ultrarunners.
Mohican 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Mohican 100 mile endurance run is a challenging loop trail ultramarathon through Ohio’s scenic Mohican State Forest, featuring rolling hills, technical single track, and over 10,000 feet of elevation gain through dense hardwood forests. Established in 1999, this race runs primarily on the demanding Bridle Trail with its notorious root-covered terrain, creek crossings, and constant undulation that tests runners’ technical skills and mental endurance throughout the humid summer conditions. Known for its excellent organization, strong volunteer support, and the famous “Mohican Magic” atmosphere created by the tight-knit ultrarunning community, this race attracts both serious competitors and first-time 100-mile runners seeking a challenging but achievable goal. The race has earned recognition as one of the Midwest’s premier trail ultramarathons, combining the natural beauty of Ohio’s forests with a true test of trail running grit that exemplifies the grassroots spirit of American ultrarunning.
HURT 100 Mile Endurance Run
The HURT 100 mile endurance run is widely considered the most technically challenging and mentally demanding 100-mile trail race in America, featuring a brutal 20-mile loop through Hawaii’s rainforests with over 24,000 feet of elevation gain and treacherous mud, roots, and stream crossings. Established in 1995, this race takes place in January on Oahu’s mountainous interior, where tropical weather conditions create a slippery, unforgiving course that tests navigation skills and mental toughness as much as physical endurance. Known for its extremely low finish rates (often under 40%), HURT attracts only the most experienced and masochistic ultrarunners seeking the ultimate test of trail running grit in conditions that can range from blazing heat to torrential downpours. The race has earned legendary status in American ultrarunning for being the most difficult 100-miler to finish, creating a unique badge of honor that represents the absolute pinnacle of trail running perseverance and technical skill.
Pine to Palm 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Pine to Palm 100 mile endurance run is a unique point-to-point ultramarathon through Oregon’s diverse terrain, running from the high desert of Bend down to the Pacific Ocean at Brookings, featuring over 15,000 feet of elevation change through forests, mountains, and coastal landscapes. Established in 1996, this race showcases Oregon’s incredible geographic diversity as runners traverse pine forests, cross mountain passes, run through agricultural valleys, and finish on stunning Pacific coastline beaches. Known for its logistical complexity and the dramatic transition from alpine wilderness to ocean views, Pine to Palm attracts adventurous ultrarunners seeking a truly unique American running experience that captures the essence of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty. The race has earned recognition as one of the most scenic and geographically diverse 100-mile events in the country, offering runners an unparalleled journey from mountains to sea that exemplifies Oregon’s spectacular outdoor heritage.
Kettle Moraine 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Kettle Moraine 100 mile endurance run is a challenging loop course through Wisconsin’s unique glacially-carved landscape, featuring over 10,000 feet of elevation gain through rolling hills, dense forests, and the distinctive kettle formations that give the race its name. Established in 2007, this race takes place in the scenic Kettle Moraine State Forest near Milwaukee, combining single track trails with fire roads through diverse terrain that includes prairies, hardwood forests, and the remnants of Wisconsin’s ancient glacial activity. Known for its well-organized race management, strong community support, and the challenging but fair course design, Kettle Moraine attracts both competitive ultrarunners and those seeking their first 100-mile finish in a supportive Midwest environment. The race has earned recognition as one of the premier ultramarathons in the Great Lakes region, offering runners a distinctive taste of Wisconsin’s natural beauty and representing the growing strength of Midwest trail ultrarunning culture.
Eastern States 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Eastern States 100 mile endurance run is a historic and challenging point-to-point trail ultramarathon through Pennsylvania’s rugged Appalachian Mountains, featuring over 20,000 feet of elevation gain along rocky ridges, steep climbs, and technical single track terrain. Established in 1993, this race follows portions of the famous Appalachian Trail and other mountain trails from Bath to Pine Grove Furnace State Park, testing runners with relentless rocky footing, stream crossings, and demanding navigation through dense Pennsylvania forests. Known for its reputation as one of the most difficult and unforgiving 100-mile races in America, Eastern States attracts only the most experienced and determined ultrarunners seeking to prove their mettle against the brutal Appalachian terrain. The race has earned legendary status in Eastern ultrarunning for its low finish rates and grueling course conditions, representing the ultimate test of grit and perseverance in the rugged mountains that helped forge American trail running culture.
San Diego 100 Mile Endurance Run
The San Diego 100 mile endurance run is Southern California’s premier 100-mile trail ultramarathon, featuring a challenging loop course through the diverse terrain of Laguna and Cuyamaca Mountains with over 17,000 feet of elevation gain. Established in 2006, this race traverses oak woodlands, pine forests, desert landscapes, and rocky technical single track, testing runners with significant climbs, stream crossings, and the notorious “Sweetwater Climb” that defines the race’s difficulty. Known for its temperate weather conditions and stunning views ranging from mountain peaks to distant ocean vistas, San Diego 100 attracts ultrarunners seeking a demanding West Coast challenge in one of California’s most scenic and accessible mountain environments. The race has earned recognition as a premier destination event that combines the natural beauty of Southern California’s backcountry with serious athletic demands, offering runners a quintessential taste of California trail ultrarunning culture.
Arkansas Traveller 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Arkansas Traveller 100 mile endurance run is a challenging loop course through the rugged Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas, featuring over 15,000 feet of elevation gain on technical single track trails through pristine wilderness areas. Established in 2005, this race traverses dense hardwood forests, crosses numerous streams and rocky creek beds, and challenges runners with relentless climbs and descents over some of the most remote and beautiful terrain in the American South. Known for its demanding course conditions, excellent organization, and the notorious “Aid Station 7” climb that tests runners’ resolve at mile 83, Arkansas Traveller attracts experienced ultrarunners seeking one of the most challenging and rewarding mountain races in the Southeast. The race has earned recognition as the premier destination ultramarathon in Arkansas, combining the natural beauty of the Ouachita National Forest with serious athletic demands that represent the growing strength of Southern trail ultrarunning culture.
Grindstone 100 Mile Endurance Run
The Grindstone 100 mile endurance run is a grueling loop course through Virginia’s rugged Blue Ridge Mountains, featuring over 24,000 feet of elevation gain on some of the most technical and demanding terrain in East Coast ultrarunning. Established in 2001, this race traverses the George Washington National Forest on steep, rocky single track with notorious climbs like “The Grindstone” and challenging descents that test both physical endurance and technical trail running skills. Known for its exceptionally difficult course conditions, low finish rates, and reputation as one of the toughest 100-mile races in America, Grindstone attracts only the most experienced and determined mountain ultrarunners seeking the ultimate Appalachian challenge. The race has earned legendary status in Eastern ultrarunning for its unforgiving terrain and serves as a proving ground where runners test their limits against some of the most punishing mountain conditions available in American trail ultrarunning.
C and O Canal 100 Mile Endurance Run
The C and O Canal 100 mile endurance run is a historic point-to-point ultramarathon along the famous Chesapeake & Ohio Canal towpath, featuring a relatively flat course with minimal elevation gain that follows the scenic Potomac River from Cumberland, Maryland to Washington, D.C. Established in 1980, this race is one of the oldest continuously held 100-mile events in America and offers runners a unique journey through American history along the well-maintained gravel towpath that was once used by mules pulling canal boats. Known for its beginner-friendly terrain, excellent organization, and strong community support from local running clubs, the C&O Canal 100 attracts both first-time 100-mile runners and seasoned ultrarunners seeking a fast, runnable course through beautiful riverside scenery. The race has earned recognition as a classic American ultramarathon that combines historical significance with accessible terrain, representing the foundational spirit of organized ultrarunning and serving as an ideal introduction to the 100-mile distance for many runners.