Black Bear Trail Races
Waterville Valley, United States • 29 Aug 2026
Black Bear Trail Races, Waterville Valley NH
The Black Bear Trail Races are a set of trail events hosted by White Mountain Endurance in Waterville Valley, New Hampshire. The race weekend includes multiple distances and uses trails that start and finish at Town Square in Waterville Valley.
- 50K Ultra : around 30.8 miles with about 7,700 feet of cumulative elevation gain
- 23K : approximately 14.6 miles on the oldest maintained trail network in the US
- 4 mile : roughly 4.1 miles on trails with no road
- 1 mile Fun Run : about 1.5 miles on double-track trail, family friendly
The 50K route circles 4,000 foot peaks and includes multiple aid stations. Race staff require specific gear for the 50K such as a headlamp, 2 liters of fluids, an emergency blanket, 400 calories of food, and a phone with the GPX track. All races are cup less; participants must carry their own hydration system. Aid stations provide water, a hydration supplement, and nutrition.
Terrain varies by distance from double-track to single-track trail. Crews and pacers are not allowed on course; crews may wait at the finish line village. All finishers who complete their registered course receive a commemorative award and there are podium awards for top three men and women in each distance. Distances may vary slightly each year due to permitting. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.