The Bear 100 Ultra 2026 Endurance Run joins the ranks of some of the world’s most challenging and scenic trail races and is one that the team at Strambecco considers to be one of the Best Trail Running Events in the Rockies. The prestigious event is also a Western States 100 and Hardrock 100 Qualifier, along with being a series event in the UTMB World Series and Rocky Moutain Slam Series event. The Bear 100 Ultra 2026 Endurance Run is a point-to-point course that starts in Logan, UT and finishes at Fish Haven, ID, at Bear Lake.

Taking participants on a mesmerizing journey through the pines, golden aspen, and red maples of the Wasatch-Cache National Forest, this event has positioned itself as not just a race but an experience of a lifetime. Stretching across the Bear River Range of Utah and Idaho and culminating at the picturesque Bear Lake, this race offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and grueling challenge.

Unique to The Bear 100 is its tie to the region’s history. Runners follow in the footsteps of a legendary Grizzly Bear named Old Ephraim, whose legend is entrenched in the race’s identity. Commemorating this icon, winners receive the esteemed Old Ephraim award, elevating their achievement to the status of local folklore.

The Bear 100 Endurance Run tests the strength and endurance of any well-trained runner with a course that features 100 Miles with a total elevation gain of 22,816′ with the highest elevation reaching 9,043′ and an average elevation of 7,320′.

The Bear 100 is a point-to-point race, commencing at Hyrum Gibbons/Mount Logan Park in Logan, Utah, and finishing at The Reserve Beach on Highway 89 in Fish Haven, Idaho. The initial ascent is the most demanding, but the course continually challenges runners with its diverse array of climbs and descents. As racers navigate the path, they’ll be enchanted by the breathtaking fall colors, particularly the brilliant hues of the red maples and yellow aspens. Approximately 70% of the course is on single-track trails, with 29% on dirt roads and a minimal 1% on pavement.

Starting in Logan, Utah, this trail running course spans an incredible distance, winding through various terrains and offering runners a myriad of challenges and scenic views. The course kicks off at Hyrum Gibbons Park and proceeds through a series of trails like South Syncline, Millville Pass, and Leatham Hollow, offering runners a mix of rocky roads, ATV trails, and dense conifer forests.

The trail running between Logan River and Beaver Mountain is particularly challenging. Runners need to keep a lookout for critical turns and pathways, particularly the very faint junctions and trail markings. The final stretch offers magnificent views, including Bear Lake, Beaver Mountain Ski Resort, and Logan Peak. However, participants must remain vigilant due to the difficult-to-spot turnoffs, especially in the dark.

The race features 12 aid stations stocked with hydration essentials like water and Gnarly Fuel₂O Endurance Drink, along with Spring Energy gels. A vast array of foods will be available, from fruits, sandwiches, trail mix, to soups. The Bear 100 has adopted a “cupless” policy, and participants should carry their hydration solutions.

All participants will be gifted a beautifully designed tech shirt, and those who cross the finish line within the 36-hour limit earn an engraved plaque showcasing the race course. They’ll also receive a belt buckle, its design contingent on their finishing time.

Cash prizes have been introduced for the top finishers:
– $500 for 1st Place (Both Male and Female) + Free Entry for the next year.
– $300 for 2nd Place (Both Male and Female).
– $200 for 3rd Place (Both Male and Female).

A special $1,000 cash prize awaits anyone breaking the course record.

To be eligible for The Bear 100 Endurance Run, participants must have completed a 50-miler in under 16 hours or any 100K, 100, or 200 Miler under the specified cutoff and rendered 8 hours of service, either through trail work or at an ultra. This event is a highly demanding mountain race and should only be undertaken by athletes in excellent physical condition.

Given its late September schedule, participants should prepare for the region’s unpredictable climate, which can range from pleasant daytime temperatures to chilly nights. Occasional storms in September might bring rain, snow, or even necessitate course changes.