Headwaters Relay 2026

Prepare for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Southwest Montana with the Headwaters Relay 2026, a truly unique three-day, team-supported adventure taking place from July 31st to August 2nd. Covering an epic 211.8 miles, this relay offers a distinct experience unlike many other races, emphasizing camaraderie and self-reliance over marked aid stations. Starting at Headwaters State Park near Three Forks, the course navigates through the region's vast and wild backcountry, culminating at the historic Hellroaring Creek in the Centennial Valley, the very source of the Missouri River.

The Headwaters Relay course is predominantly unpaved, with 95-98% of the route traversing rugged dirt and two-track roads, making a high-clearance support vehicle essential for teams. Runners will encounter significant elevation changes as they cross three distinct mountain ranges—the Tobacco Root, Ruby, and Gravelly Ranges—each offering breathtaking and remote scenery. Expect challenging climbs, including an "ultra" leg spanning nearly 10 miles over the Tobacco Root Mountains, and panoramic views from atop the Gravelly Range. Teams are entirely self-sufficient, responsible for their own navigation using detailed leg descriptions, as well as providing all food, water, and support for their runners along the route. Be aware that portions of the course venture through grizzly bear country, particularly on the third day, necessitating appropriate precautions.

Beyond the physical challenge, the Headwaters Relay is celebrated for its deep sense of teamwork and the profound experiences it fosters among participants. Each day concludes with overnight stops, allowing teams to camp and recharge before the next stage. Typical race day conditions in late July feature warm, sunny weather with highs around 84°F and lows near 54°F, accompanied by only a 4% chance of precipitation, ensuring mostly clear skies for traversing this spectacular landscape. The ultimate reward awaits at the finish line, where every team member must immerse a body part in the icy waters of Hellroaring Creek to officially complete this incredible Montana adventure.