Big Bend Ultra - Terlingua, TX

Big Bend Ultra Trail Race

Big Bend Ultra is an annual trail race held at Big Bend Ranch State Park with start and finish at the Barton Warnock Visitor Center. The event is the 23rd running and is scheduled for Sunday, January 17, 2027. Registration opens July 2026.

Distances offered:

• 100k 4571 ft gain, CX Rating 219.3, single loop, 100 runner limit
• 55k 2485 ft gain, CX Rating 176.4
• 35k 1473 ft gain, CX Rating 154.7
• 20k 746 ft gain, CX Rating 135.7
• 10k 294 ft gain, no aid station, out and back

Course notes emphasize extreme remoteness and zero cellular coverage. The area is a gold tier Dark Sky Park with very low light pollution. New routes for the 35k and 55k replace prior distances, and the 100k is a new single loop with a strict 20 hour cut off. 100k finishers receive a buckle.

Finishers receive a handmade clay finisher medal and a post race meal; the race bib serves as the meal ticket. Awards include 1st through 3rd overall male and female, 1st Masters 50 plus, and age group winners. Race swag is guaranteed for entries completed before December 25, 2025.

Aid stations are remote with limited vehicle access; Contrabando/Delta is the only vehicle accessible station for spectators. Portable toilets are at the start and finish; most stations use pop up privies and two stations have permanent pit toilets. Pacers are not allowed. Drop bag deadlines and return times are specified for the 100k and 55k and are managed from the Barton Warnock Center. Drop bags unclaimed after 30 days will be donated. The event donates a portion of proceeds to the Friends of Big Bend Ranch State Park and the Big Bend Trail Alliance.

Communications use an amateur radio repeater network and frequencies will be assigned to participants and provided on arrival. Volunteers must arrange their own lodging and transport, be able to read, write and speak English, and should be prepared for all trail maintenance tasks. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.