Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run

Single-loop trail from Olympic Valley over the Sierra Nevada to Auburn. 18,090 ft of climbing, 22,970 ft of descent through canyons, forests, and river crossings.

June in the Sierra: dramatic — start at altitude in snow, mid-race canyon sections reach 100°F+, finish at 1,100 ft in Auburn at night. Athletes experience 4 distinct climate zones.

26 aid stations over 100 miles. Each has drop bags, crews (at designated spots), and full food spreads including soup, potato, watermelon, PB&J.

The canyon heat sections at Dusty Corners and Foresthill (miles 62–78) in afternoon heat are where most DNFs happen. Athletes who are behind on sodium and calories entering the canyons rarely recover.