Blacktail Balderdash

Blacktail Balderdash

Blacktail Balderdash is the inaugural off-trail footrace presented by Floral Park Mountain Club at Blacktail Mountain Ski Area in Flathead Valley. The course travels through dense forest and open terrain with views toward the Swan Range and Glacier National Park and passes areas with native plants and wild flowers.

The event is a navigation focused adventure race. Between checkpoints the route will be sparsely marked, and navigation is a major part of the challenge. Exact lines and elevation depend on how participants travel, so distances and elevation figures are approximate. Course routes will not be revealed until the day before the race at packet pickup.

Course options:

• Green Course: ~5 miles, ~3000 ft elevation gain
• Blue Course: ~10 miles, ~5000 ft elevation gain
• Black Course: ~20 miles, ~10000 ft elevation gain

Required gear includes bear spray, an emergency whistle, and at least 1 L of water capacity for the Green Course. Recommended items include a navigational device, compass, extra nutrition, sun and bug protection, hiking poles, and gaiters or pants. Three aid stations will offer nutrition and hydration options including Skratch Labs and SaltStick. Bias Brewing will host a post race party in their courtyard or upstairs if rainy. Floral Park Mountain Club formed in 2025 as a community focused club. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.