Badwater 135
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Badwater 135
The Mount to Coast Badwater 135 Ultramarathon is an invitational 135-mile (217 km) nonstop road race held July 19-21, 2027, between Badwater Basin in Death Valley and Whitney Portal near Mt. Whitney, California. The event accepts up to about 100 competitors from multiple countries and U.S. states and enforces a 45-hour time limit for official finishers.
The course begins at Badwater Basin, approximately 280 feet (85 m) below sea level, and finishes at Whitney Portal at about 8,300 feet (2,530 m). The route crosses three mountain ranges with approximately 14,600 feet (4,450 m) of cumulative ascent and 6,100 feet (1,859 m) of cumulative descent. Notable climbs described in the route materials include Towne Pass (mile 42.2 to 58.9), the Father Crowley ascent (mile 72.8 to 80.8 plus a gradual gain afterward), and the Whitney Portal approach (mile 122.8 to 135) with the steepest grade in the final mile.
Entry is by application only; the 2027 application window is January 2–20, 2027. Applicants must meet published qualifying standards such as prior ultra finish requirements. The race is conducted under special use permits from multiple agencies and includes mandatory forms, crew and vehicle rules, and specific safety and time-cut requirements at designated mile markers. Race entry fee, refund rules, charity fundraising options, and guaranteed-charity entry opportunities are specified in the event materials. Official finishers within the time limit receive awards including a finisher shirt and a belt buckle. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
