The Bighorn Trail Run stands as one of the most demanding ultramarathons in the Rocky Mountains, threading through the remote wilderness of Wyoming’s Bighorn National Forest. This Rocky Mountain Slam qualifier and UTMB World Series event challenges runners with a brutal out-and-back course featuring over 20,500 feet of climbing across 100 miles of varied terrain.

The course combines 76 miles of technical single-track, 16 miles of rugged jeep trails, and 8 miles of gravel road. Runners face extreme conditions from canyon heat during the day to potentially freezing temperatures at night, with 34 hours to complete the journey at an average pace of 2.94 mph. The turnaround point sits at Jaws Trailhead at mile 48, marking the halfway point of this punishing test.

Eighteen aid stations support the 100-mile course, with fully stocked stations offering rest and refueling opportunities. The Sally’s Footbridge station includes medical checks, while volunteers prepare for temperature extremes throughout the weekend. Course marking is meticulous, featuring orange flagging tape, lime powder arrows, and reflective tape with glow sticks for night sections.

The event offers multiple distances: 52-mile, 32-mile, and 18-mile options, each presenting significant challenges while sharing the same celebratory finish at Scott Park. The weekend atmosphere balances serious competition with community spirit, beginning with Thursday’s race briefing and culminating in Sunday’s shared breakfast where participants swap stories of their mountain adventure.

All courses converge at Scott Park for post-race festivities including showers, local food, beer, live music, and awards ceremonies.