Badwater 135
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Badwater 135 (Lone Pine, CA, July 27-29, 2026)
The Badwater 135 is a non-stop, invitational ultramarathon covering 135 miles (217 km) from Badwater Basin in Death Valley to Whitney Portal near Mt. Whitney. The start area sits about 280 feet (85 m) below sea level and the finish is near 8,300 feet (about 2,530 m). The route crosses three mountain ranges with approximately 14,600 feet (4,450 m) of cumulative ascent and 6,100 feet (1,859 m) of cumulative descent. The course passes landmarks such as Mushroom Rock, Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, Panamint Springs, Darwin, Keeler, Lone Pine, and the Alabama Hills.
Competition is limited to an international, invitational field of roughly 100 athletes. Runners must complete the course within a 45 hour time limit and pass mandatory checkpoints at multiple mile points, including mile 50.5, mile 72, mile 90, and mile 122 (mile 122 must be passed within 40 hours of an individual’s start time). Final route approval is subject to government agency permits.
Each competitor must be accompanied by a single support vehicle and a crew of two to four people, with a designated Crew Chief and required safety equipment for crew and pacers. Mandatory pre race paperwork, safety gear, and Competitor Check-In are enforced. Entry is by application; the standard entry fee is $1,595 with a specified refund policy. The event supports official charities and offers fundraising and charity entry options under defined guidelines. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
