MDH BUCK-FIFTY ULTRA ENDURANCE RACE

Prepare for an extraordinary challenge at the MDH BUCK-FIFTY ULTRA ENDURANCE RACE, set to unfold on May 1, 2026, in the rugged and breathtaking Badlands of Watford City, North Dakota. This epic event pushes the boundaries of endurance, offering distances of 300M, 154M, and 151M, which can be completed over one, two, three, or even six days. Participants will traverse the legendary Maah Daah Hey Trail, a phenomenon of raw and rugged single-track that comprises 90-95% of the course. Starting at the Burning Coal Vein Campground Trailhead, runners will head north through dramatic scenery, facing an elevation gain of 17,539 feet over the 154+ mile point-to-point journey to the CCC Campground. This "self-sufficient" race demands extreme preparedness, as runners may encounter difficult terrain, wild animals, livestock, and water crossings in the remote wilderness.

The MDH BUCK-FIFTY holds a reputation as one of the longest and most brutal continuous single-track races globally, making it a monumental accomplishment for any athlete. While unsupported racers are fully responsible for their own gear and aid, supported participants can meet SAG vehicles at checkpoints spaced 5 to 15 miles apart, with one major aid station offering food, liquids, drop bag access, and Tailwind sports drink around the halfway point. Runners praise the event for its challenging nature, tough demands, and the beautiful views that forge a lifetime bond with the trail, promising an unforgettable experience. Typical race day conditions in early May feature comfortable highs around 62°F and lows around 33°F, with a minimal 8% chance of precipitation, providing ideal temperatures for tackling this demanding course.