Elkhorn Crest 50

Elkhorn Crest 50 : Sumpter, OR : August 8, 2026

Elkhorn Crest is a mountain ultramarathon held near Sumpter, Oregon. The event offers two distances and routes that follow the Elkhorn Mountain ridgeline and nearby trails, with sustained climbs, technical descents, and high-elevation running above 7,200 ft.

Distances

• 53 miles
• 50K

The 53-mile course follows the Elkhorn Crest Trail across subalpine forests and grasslands, with a mix of smooth single track and rocky technical sections. The 53-mile route includes about 10,500 ft of climbing and nearly 11,000 ft of descent. The 50K follows much of the same corridor and includes roughly 6,500 ft of gain and 7,100 ft of loss, with features such as Lost Lake and a loop around Summit Lake.

Due to the remote mountain environment, participants must have completed a prior trail ultramarathon before the event. Mandatory gear carried at all times includes capacity for 1.5 liters of fluid, a jacket, an emergency blanket, and a headlamp with extra batteries. The race is cupless.

Logistics and amenities center on the Sumpter fairgrounds. Bib pickup is held race morning at the fairgrounds and a shuttle transports runners to the start; crew drop-off at the start is not allowed. Camping at the fairgrounds is free; limited RV sites are first-come and some offer electricity or water but no sewer. Showers are available for a small fee and require quarters. Quiet hours are enforced at night.

The event operates under a special use permit in partnership with Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Proceeds benefit the Baker City high school cross country team and a local 4x4 group. Awards and sponsor prizes are provided for top finishers and finishers receive a finisher award and a post-race meal. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.