Madison Ultra

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Gravelly Range and the renowned Madison River, the Madison Ultra 50K on July 12, 2026, in Ennis, MT, offers a truly distinctive ultrarunning experience. This isn't your typical trail race; instead, prepare for a relentless downhill journey on a quality gravel road, spanning precisely 50 kilometers from start to finish. Runners begin atop Monument Ridge at a staggering 9,587 feet above sea level, embarking on a continuous descent that delivers an exhilarating net drop of approximately 6,000 feet to the finish line at Varney Bridge on the Madison River.

The course, largely within the beautiful Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, promises stunning vistas of Southwest Montana, home to a blue-ribbon trout stream famous worldwide for fly fishing. While the path is a well-maintained gravel road, expect virtually no flat sections, ensuring a constant test of downhill running prowess. Typical race day conditions in mid-July feature highs around 85F and lows around 45F, with a minimal 4% chance of precipitation, providing generally favorable, albeit warm, weather for this unique challenge.

The Madison Ultra is a limited support event, meaning runners must be self-sufficient with their hydration. Water coolers are strategically placed every five kilometers along the route, but participants are required to bring their own water bottles as cups are not provided. All runners check in at Varney Bridge, where they will park and be shuttled to the Monument Ridge start, ensuring a seamless start to this epic point-to-point adventure. If you're seeking a high-elevation, fast-paced descent through remarkable Montana scenery, the Madison Ultra 50K delivers an unforgettable race designed to push your limits.