Sentinel Hill Climb
Missoula, United States • 6 May 2026
Sentinel Hill Climb
The Sentinel Hill Climb is a short, steep trail race that finishes on the summit of Mount Sentinel on the University of Montana campus. The course begins at the ‘M’ trail parking lot and follows the ‘M’ trail before continuing on the Northwest ridge trail to the summit. Runners receive Big Dipper Ice Cream and Hammer Nutrition products at the finish, and the event uses chip timing from Competitive Timing.
Distances:
- Main course: 1.6 miles with 1,970 feet of gain
- Kids 'M' Trail Climb: 0.6 miles with 600 feet of climbing
The event is limited to 250 runners. Registration fees are tiered by date: $30 during the early registration period and $35 for later registration through race day. There are no refunds, deferrals, or bib transfers.
Awards include cash prizes for the first place male and female overall when started in the elite wave, a $50 premium for the first male and female to the ‘M’ (finishing required), and age-group prizes in categories from 0-19 through 70-plus. Overall placings for top finishers are determined by gun time rather than chip time.
The climb takes place on University of Montana property in the ‘M’ Parking Lot. Parking at the trail lot is limited and surrounding lots require a university parking pass. Volunteers receive a Runner’s Edge gift card and post-race Big Dipper ice cream. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.