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The world's oldest 100 mile race!


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Map Key

96.9

Miles

156.0

KM

85%

Runnable

8,674' 2,644 m

High

586' 179 m

Low

16,647' 5,074 m

Up

21,596' 6,582 m

Down

7%

Avg Grade (4°)

80%

Max Grade (39°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

Lottery entry.

Overview

Since 1974, Western States has been home to some of the sports most stirring and legendary competitions, and has spurred the capacity of spirit of all runners, of all abilities and from all walks of life, from all over the globe.

Need to Know

Entry is by lottery, and there are FAR more entrants that available slots. Check the official site for details.

Description

The Western States Endurance Run follows the Western States Trail starting at Squaw Valley, California, and ends in Auburn, California. Runners depart at 5am on Saturday of the last full weekend in June at the west end of Squaw Valley and must reach the finish line no later than 10:59:59 a.m. on the following day in order to be eligible for an award.

The Western States Endurance Run uses the middle portion of the famous Western States Trail, a nationally dedicated recreational trail that extends from Salt Lake City, Utah, to Sacramento, California. One of the most arduous organized running events in the U.S., the Western States 100 is truly the Ultimate Challenge for the long distance runner. Entry in this event should not be taken lightly!

Beginning in Squaw Valley, site of the 1960 Winter Olympic Games, the trail ascends from the valley floor (elevation 6,200 feet) to Emigrant Pass (elevation 8,750 feet), a climb of 2,550 vertical feet in the first 4 miles. From the pass, following the original trails used by the gold and silver miners of the 1850s, runners travel west, climbing another 15,540 feet and descending 22,970 feet before reaching Auburn, a small town in the heart of Californias historic gold country. Most of the trail passes through remote and rugged territory. People who are unfamiliar with the area should use caution when planning training runs, especially in the high country. Before leaving, let someone know where you'll be running and when you'll return. REMEMBER THAT MUCH OF THIS TERRITORY IS ACCESSIBLE ONLY BY FOOT, HORSE OR HELICOPTER.

Due to the remoteness and inaccessibility of the trail, the Western States Endurance Run differs substantially from other organized runs. Adequate mental and physical preparation are of utmost importance to each runner, for the high mountains and deep canyons, although beautiful, are relentless in their challenge and unforgiving to the ill-prepared.

Shared By:

Nick Wilder

Trail Ratings

  5.0 from 3 votes

#2

in Squaw Valley

#1145

Overall
  5.0 from 3 votes
5 Star
100%
4 Star
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1 Star
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Recommended Route Rankings

#2

in Squaw Valley

#180

in California

#1,145

Overall
26 Views Last Month
4,867 Since Mar 24, 2015
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Photos

Mosquito Ridge from just east of Michigan Bluff.
Jun 17, 2020 near Foresthill, CA
Cruising up the ski resort.
Jun 30, 2015 near Sunnysi…, CA
Killing some trail.
Jun 30, 2015 near Foresthill, CA
View of the American River.
Sep 12, 2020 near Auburn, CA
Treetops and Mountainsides
Sep 12, 2020 near Auburn, CA
So quiet along the trail
Sep 12, 2020 near Auburn, CA
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