Never Summer 100Km

Event overview

The Never Summer races are trail ultras staged in and around State Forest State Park near Gould, Colorado, between the Never Summer and Medicine Bow mountain ranges. Distances offered are:

• 100 km (about 65.7 miles, ~14,500 ft ascent)
• 60 km (about 39.2 miles, ~8,100 ft ascent)

Reported minimum, maximum and average elevations are 8,450 ft, 11,852 ft and 10,220 ft respectively. Terrain includes singletrack, dirt and logging roads, cross-country sections, rock and boulder fields, high alpine ridges and mud. Wildlife on course may include moose, elk, deer, black bears and bighorn sheep. Registration is capped at 625 total entrants (100 km - 325; 60 km - 300). Time allowances are 24 hours for the 100 km and 15 hours for the 60 km.

Course, aid stations and logistics

The courses feature extended high alpine ridge running and two alpine peaks, with multiple alpine lakes on route. The longest stretch without aid is 11.4 miles (start to Michigan Ditch); one difficult high-altitude section between Ruby Jewel and Clear Lake is about 10.0 miles. Full-service aid stations provide sports drink, gels, water, salty snacks, fruit, sweets, sandwiches and hot foods at night; gluten-free and vegan options are available for most items. Drop bags are accepted at designated aid stations for each distance. Crews and pacers are allowed only at specified aid stations and a Colorado State Parks pass is required to access aid-station parking. Cell service is very limited; course maps and GPX files are provided for navigation. Required gear includes a jacket, warm hat, gloves, whistle and at least 32 oz water capacity; a light is required for the 100 km. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.