Bighorn Mountain Wild and Scenic Trail Run

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the rugged heart of Wyoming with the Bighorn Mountain Wild and Scenic Trail Run on June 20, 2026. This esteemed event, with distances of 52M, 32M, and 18M, challenges runners amidst the breathtaking, geologically unique Bighorn Mountains. Founded in 1993, the race has a rich history rooted in conservation, originally established to raise awareness and protect the Dry Fork and Little Bighorn River canyons from development. It has since earned a reputation as one of the nation's most challenging mountain ultras, drawing avid trail runners seeking a true test of endurance and grit.

The course is a spectacular, demanding out-and-back adventure, with the 52-mile race starting at the 100-mile turnaround point. Runners will navigate elevations reaching up to 10,000 feet, traversing everything from wide jeep roads to gnarly singletrack, alongside monumental climbs and exhilarating descents. Expect a diverse landscape showcasing flower-strewn meadows, dense pine forests, and dramatic vistas of the Tongue and Little Bighorn River canyons, including the iconic limestone formation known as "The Needle" and Cathedral Rock. Be prepared for the Bighorn's notorious "shoe-sucking mud" and the possibility of encountering wildlife like elk, deer, moose, and even bears or rattlesnakes. Typical race day conditions in Sheridan, WY, feature highs around 80F and lows near 48F, with only a 7% chance of precipitation, though mountain weather can be unpredictable.

Known for its incredible community spirit and western hospitality, the Bighorn Mountain Wild and Scenic Trail Run offers well-stocked aid stations manned by dedicated and tough volunteers. These remote oases are famous for their extravagant supplies and unwavering support, though runners are advised to be self-sufficient given the challenging backcountry sections. The finish line, located in Scott Park in Dayton, WY, promises a celebratory atmosphere, offering a well-deserved reward for conquering a course that runners describe as both "breathtaking" and "quad-busting" but ultimately "incredibly rewarding."