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The Western States Endurance Run is the world’s oldest and most prestigious 100-mile trail race, traversing the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains from Olympic Valley to Auburn, California.
Course Highlights
The Western States Endurance Run (WSER) follows the middle portion of the historic Western States Trail, a nationally dedicated recreational trail that stretches across the Sierra Nevada. The race begins at the west end of Olympic Valley, the site of the 1960 Winter Olympic Games, and immediately subjects runners to a grueling 2,550-foot climb in the first four miles to Emigrant Pass. From there, the course traverses the Granite Chief Wilderness, offering breathtaking views of the high Sierra before descending into the rugged and heat-intensified canyons of the American River. One of the most iconic moments occurs at mile 78, where runners must ford the icy waters of the American River at the Rucky Chucky crossing, often using a guided cable for safety. The final stretch leads competitors through the foothills and into the city of Auburn, culminating in a world-famous lap on the Placer High School track.
Race Details
As the world’s oldest 100-mile trail race, Western States is a test of both physical endurance and mental fortitude. The race typically starts at 05:00 on the last full weekend of June. Over the course of 100.2 miles, participants encounter over 18,000 feet of cumulative elevation gain and a staggering 23,000 feet of descent. The environment is notoriously extreme; morning temperatures at the high-altitude start can be near freezing, while midday heat in the canyons frequently exceeds 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Runners must adhere to a strict 30-hour cutoff to officially finish. Those who complete the journey in under 24 hours are awarded the coveted silver belt buckle, while those finishing between 24 and 30 hours receive a bronze buckle. Due to its prestige and environmental regulations, the field is limited to approximately 369 starters, chosen through a highly competitive lottery and “Golden Ticket” qualifying series.
Why Runners Love It
The Western States 100 is steeped in legend, originating in 1974 when Gordy Ainsleigh completed the Tevis Cup horse race on foot to prove it could be done. This act of “human endurance” birthed the modern sport of mountain ultrarunning. Runners are drawn to its rich history and the incredible community support, with over 1,500 dedicated volunteers lining the course. The race is famous for its “Golden Hour”—the final 60 minutes before the 30-hour cutoff—where the crowd at Placer High School erupts in support of the final finishers, embodying the grit and spirit of the sport. For many, simply standing at the start line in Olympic Valley is the culmination of years of qualifying and lottery entries, making it the “Ultimate Challenge” for long-distance athletes worldwide. The race also partners with various trail stewardship programs, ensuring the preservation of the historic Western States Trail for future generations.
At a Glance
- Location: Olympic Valley, CA — United States
- Next Date: 2026-06-27
- Distances: 100.2 miles
- Start Time: 05:00
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.wser.org
The Western States Endurance Run is the world’s oldest and most prestigious 100-mile trail race, traversing the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains from Olympic Valley to Auburn, California.
Course Highlights
The Western States Endurance Run (WSER) follows the middle portion of the historic Western States Trail, a nationally dedicated recreational trail that stretches across the Sierra Nevada. The race begins at the west end of Olympic Valley, the site of the 1960 Winter Olympic Games, and immediately subjects runners to a grueling 2,550-foot climb in the first four miles to Emigrant Pass. From there, the course traverses the Granite Chief Wilderness, offering breathtaking views of the high Sierra before descending into the rugged and heat-intensified canyons of the American River. One of the most iconic moments occurs at mile 78, where runners must ford the icy waters of the American River at the Rucky Chucky crossing, often using a guided cable for safety. The final stretch leads competitors through the foothills and into the city of Auburn, culminating in a world-famous lap on the Placer High School track.
Race Details
As the world’s oldest 100-mile trail race, Western States is a test of both physical endurance and mental fortitude. The race typically starts at 05:00 on the last full weekend of June. Over the course of 100.2 miles, participants encounter over 18,000 feet of cumulative elevation gain and a staggering 23,000 feet of descent. The environment is notoriously extreme; morning temperatures at the high-altitude start can be near freezing, while midday heat in the canyons frequently exceeds 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Runners must adhere to a strict 30-hour cutoff to officially finish. Those who complete the journey in under 24 hours are awarded the coveted silver belt buckle, while those finishing between 24 and 30 hours receive a bronze buckle. Due to its prestige and environmental regulations, the field is limited to approximately 369 starters, chosen through a highly competitive lottery and “Golden Ticket” qualifying series.
Why Runners Love It
The Western States 100 is steeped in legend, originating in 1974 when Gordy Ainsleigh completed the Tevis Cup horse race on foot to prove it could be done. This act of “human endurance” birthed the modern sport of mountain ultrarunning. Runners are drawn to its rich history and the incredible community support, with over 1,500 dedicated volunteers lining the course. The race is famous for its “Golden Hour”—the final 60 minutes before the 30-hour cutoff—where the crowd at Placer High School erupts in support of the final finishers, embodying the grit and spirit of the sport. For many, simply standing at the start line in Olympic Valley is the culmination of years of qualifying and lottery entries, making it the “Ultimate Challenge” for long-distance athletes worldwide. The race also partners with various trail stewardship programs, ensuring the preservation of the historic Western States Trail for future generations.
At a Glance
- Location: Olympic Valley, CA — United States
- Next Date: 2026-06-27
- Distances: 100.2 miles
- Start Time: 05:00
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.wser.org