The snow is melting, and the trails are calling! It’s time to lace up your shoes, hydrate those electrolytes, and dive into the excitement of race season across southwest Montana. From casual jogs to intense mountain challenges, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your guide to the hottest races coming up!
April
- Race Date: April 20
- Type: Road run
- Distance: 3.1 miles
- Cost: $25
- Difficulty: Easy
- Details: Join the Big Sky Wind Drinkers for a feel-good run celebrating Mother Earth. Starting and ending at the Fairgrounds, this race lets you sweat for a cause, with proceeds benefiting the Gallatin Watershed Council. After the run, stick around for the Gallatin Valley Earth Day Festival, filled with music, food, and eco-friendly exhibits.
Expedition 12k
- Race Date: April 21
- Type: Trail run
- Distance: 7.5 miles
- Cost: $60
- Difficulty: Medium
- Details: Blaze through the scenic trails of Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park in this exhilarating spring kickoff. Expect rugged terrain and breathtaking views as you tackle this 12k adventure through canyons and ridges.
May
- Race Date: May 11
- Type: Trail run, hike, or dog walk
- Distances: 3.2, 7.2, or 18.5 miles
- Cost: $30-$100
- Difficulty: Easy to hard
- Details: Dive into Helena’s South Hills trail system for a day of trail-running fun. Whether you’re sprinting, hiking, or strolling with your furry friend, this event celebrates open space and community. Finish strong at Pioneer Park, where a vibrant post-race party awaits with food, music, and family-friendly entertainment.
- Registration deadline: May 5 - May 19, 2024
- Race Date: August 10
- Type: Trail run
- Distances: 20 miles
- Cost: $90
- Difficulty: Hard
- Details: Although scheduled for August, the renowned Bridger Ridge Run requires registration by May 19. Limited to 250 participants due to its iconic route along the Bridger skyline, runners are chosen via lottery, with options to improve chances. Explore entry instructions for details. Delve into the race’s history through Outside Bozeman’s inaugural issue and appreciate its enduring essence.
- Race Date: May 18
- Type: Trail run
- Distance: 8 miles
- Cost: $20
- Difficulty: Medium
- Details: Brace yourself for the ultimate uphill battle as you conquer Mount Baldy from the M trailhead. With unpredictable weather and challenging terrain, this 8-mile blitz promises an adrenaline-packed adventure from start to finish.
- Race Date: May 18
- Type: Road run
- Distances: 13.1 or 26.2 miles
- Cost: $5
- Difficulty: Medium to hard
- Details: Experience the beauty of spring with a scenic run from the Bridgers to Livingston. Choose your distance and hit the pavement for an epic journey through Montana’s breathtaking landscapes—all for the unbeatable entry fee of just $5.
June
- Race Date: June 15
- Type: Trail run
- Distances: 20 or 34 miles
- Cost: $65-$75
- Difficulty: Hard
- Details: Prepare for a soul-crushing challenge as you tackle the rugged terrain of the western Bridgers. With massive vertical gains and stunning vistas, Old Gabe promises an unforgettable test of endurance for seasoned trail runners.
- Race Date: June 15-16
- Type: Trail run & mountain bike
- Distances: 6-mile lap (run), 9-mile lap (bike)
- Cost: $50-$550
- Difficulty: Easy to extreme
- Details: Embark on an epic 24-hour adventure in the picturesque Elk Basin. Whether you’re running or biking, this race offers something for everyone, from solo competitors to teams of eight. After conquering the trails, unwind with live music, catered meals, and a kids’ race for the little ones.
Wulfman’s CDT 14k
- Race Date: June 22
- Type: Trail run
- Distance: 8.7 miles
- Cost: $35
- Difficulty: Medium
- Details: Take on the Continental Divide Trail in this thrilling 14k race through Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. With stunning scenery and challenging terrain, Wulfman’s promises an adventure you won’t soon forget.
- Race Date: June 23-28
- Type: Mixed-surface bike race
- Distances: 185 or 370 miles
- Cost: $875-1,575
- Difficulty: Hard
- Details: Experience the ultimate cycling adventure with the Montana Tour 2024. Over three or six days, ride alongside the Absaroka, Beartooth, Crazy, and Bridger mountain ranges on a mix of gravel, dirt, and paved roads. With fully-supported routes and stunning mountain vistas, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Montana’s wilderness.
July
- Race Date: July 6
- Type: Run
- Distances: 3.1, 6.2, or 13.1 miles
- Cost: $50-$65
- Difficulty: Easy to medium
- Details: Prepare for a run so scenic, you’ll forget you’re above 10,000 feet. Trek along the paved Beartooth Highway, with routes offering breathtaking views atop Beartooth Pass. And don’t forget to refuel at the finish line with snacks and brews from Red Lodge Ales—because you’ve earned it!
- Race Date: July 6
- Type: Swim, bike, run
- Distances: .7-mile swim, 25-mile bike, 6.2-mile run
- Cost: $85
- Difficulty: Hard
- Details: Dive into the Madison Valley for the ultimate test of endurance. This Olympic-distance triathlon takes you from Ennis Lake to Pony, offering a challenge fit for mountain warriors. And here’s a little secret: complete the Madison Trifecta to earn T.B.A. status (Total Bad-Ass)!
- Race Date: July 7
- Type: Run, bike, run
- Distances: 2-mile run, 25-mile bike, 6.2-mile run
- Cost: $85
- Difficulty: Hard
- Details: Swap out the swim for an extra run in this multisport challenge through Ennis to Virginia City. The Madison Duathlon is perfect for those who prefer to keep their feet on solid ground while still tackling an Olympic-distance course. Psst... use code OB2024 for a sweet 10% off!
- Race Date: July 13
- Type: Dirt-road run
- Distances: 13.1 or 26.2 miles
- Cost: $90-120
- Difficulty: Medium to hard
- Details: Brace yourself for the “personal worst” time of your life at one of the highest road-marathons worldwide. But fear not—the breathtaking alpine scenery and intimate camaraderie make it all worthwhile. Plus, there’s a half-marathon option for those seeking a slightly less intense challenge. Don’t miss out on the discount with code OB2024!
Teton Mountain Runs
- Race Date: July 13 - 14
- Type: Run
- Distances: 15k, 30k, or 50k
- Cost: $65-$139
- Difficulty: Medium to hard
- Details: Prepare to be awestruck as you traverse the high alpine terrain of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. With courses offering jaw-dropping views of the Grand Teton and an abundance of wildflowers, this race promises an unforgettable mountain adventure. And did we mention the fresh waffles at the Top of the World?
- Race Date: July 14
- Type: Dirt-road and trail run
- Distances: 13.1 or 26.2 miles
- Cost: $90-120
- Difficulty: Medium to hard
- Details: Why settle for one marathon when you can tackle two? Join the “Double-Marathon Weekend” fun with the Big Sky Marathon, featuring a net 3,600-foot descent from the Gravelly Range to the Madison Valley floor. Psst... don’t forget to snag that 10% discount with code OB2024!
- Race Date: July 20
- Type: Dirt-road run
- Distance: 31 miles
- Cost: $75
- Difficulty: Hard
- Details: Ready to go the distance? Embark on this natural point-to-point 50k route from Monument Ridge to the Madison River, boasting a downhill descent nearly the entire way. It’s time to push your limits and embrace the “WTF” moments of ultra-running. Don’t miss out on the discount with code OB2024!
- Race Date: July 21
- Type: Gravel bike
- Distance: 55 miles
- Cost: $75
- Difficulty: Hard
- Details: Get ready to conquer the gravel roads of the Gravelly Range in this epic valley-to-valley journey. With over 6,000 feet of vertical gain on the climb and a scenic descent to Vigilante Station, this race promises solitude and adventure in equal measure. Psst... use code OB2024 for a sweet 10% off!
- Race Date: July 26
- Type: Trail run
- Distance: 100 miles
- Cost: $395
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Details: Prepare for the ultimate test of endurance in Montana’s only 100-miler. With over 25,000 feet of vertical gain and rugged alpine terrain, the Crazy Mountain 100 is not for the faint of heart. Lace up your shoes, channel your inner wild, and prepare for a journey like no other.
Jim Bridger Trail Run
- Race Date: July 27
- Type: Run
- Distances: 3.1 or 10 miles
- Cost: $35-65
- Difficulty: Easy to medium
- Details: Nestled in the foothills of the Bridgers, this race promises breathtaking views and exhilarating trails. Choose between the 3.1-mile or 10-mile route, with the longer option looping through Middle Cottonwood via a race day-only cut across private land. Plus, stick around for the post-race party—it’s guaranteed to be a blast!
August
- Race Date: August 3
- Type: Dirt-road run
- Distances: 3.1 or 6.2 miles
- Cost: $15
- Difficulty: Easy
- Details: Join the excitement of the Sweet Pea Festival with this iconic race through the heart of Bozeman. Choose between a 5k or 10k route as you explore the charming south side of town. This family-friendly event, one of Bozeman’s oldest running races, supports local nonprofits and offers cash prizes for top finishers.
- Registration Deadline: May 5 – May 19, 2024
- Race Date: August 10
- Type: Trail run
- Distance: 20 miles
- Cost: $90
- Difficulty: Hard
- Details: Prepare for the challenge of a lifetime with the iconic Bridger Ridge Run. This breathtaking race follows a scenic route across the Bridger skyline, offering unparalleled views and unmatched elegance. With a limited field of 250 runners, secure your spot early and immerse yourself in the beauty of Montana’s rugged landscapes.
- Race Date: August 10
- Type: Dirt-road run
- Distances: 31 or 19 miles
- Cost: $60-$170
- Difficulty: Hard
- Details: Embark on a journey through the stunning Beartooth Mountains with the Prospector’s race series. Choose between a 50k or 30k route, winding along Forest Service roads and climbing above treeline into the beautiful alpine terrain. And of course, don’t miss out on the legendary after-party in Cooke City!
- Race Date: August 17
- Type: Trail run
- Distances: 4.3, 13.1, or 26.2 miles
- Cost: $60-$170
- Difficulty: Easy to hard
- Details: Get back to the roots of trail running with the Nitty Gritty at Red Lodge Mountain. Join fellow enthusiasts for a day of camaraderie, challenging terrain, and ice-cold beer. Whether you’re tackling the 4.3-mile lap or going the distance with a full marathon, this race promises unforgettable memories and endless adventure.
Big Sky Biggie
- Race Date: August 17
- Type: Mountain bike
- Distances: 15, 30, or 50 miles
- Cost: $60-$170
- Difficulty: Medium to hard
- Details: Calling all mountain biking enthusiasts! Explore the best of southwest Montana’s trails with the Big Sky Biggie. Whether you’re a casual rider or a singletrack fanatic, there’s a distance for every skill level. Prepare for breathtaking views and adrenaline-pumping descents in this ultimate mountain biking adventure.
- Race Date: August 19
- Type: Road bike
- Distance: 62 miles
- Cost: $150-345
- Difficulty: Hard
- Details: Ladies, it’s time to conquer Beartooth Pass in this women’s-only bike tour. Ride the scenic 62-mile route from Red Lodge to the halfway mark and back, with awards for the first to the top. Enjoy rest stops with snacks and hydration, plus deluxe registration options including a stay at the historic Pollard Hotel.
- Race Date: August 25
- Type: Road bike
- Distances: 22, 50, or 100 miles
- Cost: $60-$90
- Difficulty: Medium to hard
- Details: Experience the thrill of gravel riding in downtown Red Lodge. Choose your distance and explore the rolling foothills of the Beartooth Mountains in this epic cycling event. With options for riders of all abilities, the Big Sky Gravel promises breathtaking scenery and unforgettable adventures.
September
- Race Date: September 21
- Type: Off-trail run
- Distance: 7.5 miles
- Cost: $55
- Difficulty: Medium
- Details: Step back in time and retrace John Colter’s legendary escape in this rugged off-trail run. Navigate a challenging 7.5-mile route marked by rock cairns, tipis, and rugged terrain. With the firing of a 50-caliber black-powder rifle to signal the start, this race promises a truly immersive experience in Montana’s wild frontier.
October
- Race Date: October 6
- Type: Dirt-road run
- Distances: 6.2 or 13.1 miles
- Cost: $20-$65
- Difficulty: Easy to medium
- Details: Discover the beauty of Montana’s back roads in this scenic run through the Beartooths. Choose between a half-marathon or 10k distance as you soak in stunning views and fresh mountain air. Perfect for runners of all ages and abilities, this race promises a memorable journey through rural Montana landscapes.
- Race Date: February 22
- Type: SkiMo
- Distances: 3.5, 4.25, or 6.5 miles
- Cost: $35-$70
- Difficulty: Easy to medium
- Details: Strap on your AT gear and hit the slopes with the Red Lodge Randonnee Races. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned SkiMo racer, there’s a course for every skill level. Join fellow enthusiasts for a day of uphill adventure and adrenaline-fueled fun at Red Lodge Mountain.
Get ready to hit the trails and experience the thrill of racing across the stunning landscapes of southwest Montana. Lace up, gear up, and let the adventures begin!