Hurl Elkhorn
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HURL Elkhorn
HURL Elkhorn is a set of trail races held in the Elkhorn Mountains near Helena, MT. The event includes multiple distances and is presented as Montana's oldest trail ultra. Races start and finish at the Willard Creek Trailhead at the end of Forest Service Road 4014.
Distances
- 50 Mile
- 50 K
- 13.1 Mile
Course terrain is primarily single track and primitive jeep road, with about one mile of maintained Forest Service road. The 50 mile course gains approximately 13,400 feet and reaches a maximum elevation just under 9,000 feet. Participants may encounter wildlife such as deer, elk, moose, bear, coyote, and mountain goats.
Aid and crew support vary by distance. The 50 mile course has eight aid stations with the longest gap about seven miles and offers a drop bag location at mile 20. The 50k has five aid stations with up to eight miles between stations. The 13.1 mile course has two aid stations with up to six miles between them. Aid supplies are moved by ATV, horsepack, and on foot; one aid location is vehicle-accessible.
The event is organized entirely by volunteers through the nonprofit Helena Ultra Runners League (HURL). The race supports local organizations and trail maintenance in partnership with the Helena Lewis and Clark National Forest. Depending on fire restrictions or smoke, the format may change or the event may be canceled. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
