Black Bear Trail Races
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Black Bear Trail Races - Waterville Valley, NH
The Black Bear Trail Races take place in Waterville Valley, New Hampshire, on August 29, 2026. Events start and finish near the Waterville Valley Town Square and use trails in the White Mountain area. The weekend includes multiple distances and on-course aid stations.
- 50K - about 30.8 miles, roughly 7,700 feet of cumulative elevation.
- 23K - about 14.6 miles on the oldest maintained trail network in the United States.
- 4 Mile - 4.1 miles with approximately 600 feet of climbing.
- 1 Mile Fun Run - 1.5 miles, 100% double-track; children under 13 may register to run free.
The 50K route climbs Snow's Mountain, East Osceola, Osceola, and Tecumseh and is supported by multiple aid stations. Aid stations on the 23K and 4 Mile courses provide water, hydration supplement, and nutrition; the event is cup-less and participants must carry their own hydration system.
Mandatory equipment for 50K participants is checked at bib pickup. Required items include a headlamp, extra batteries, at least 2 liters of water, 400 calories of food, a space or emergency blanket, and a windbreaker or rain shell. A GPX file of the course and a phone charger are highly recommended.
No pacers or crews are allowed on course; crews may gather at the finish village. Drop bags are allowed at the start/finish area. Parking is available in lots adjacent to Town Square at 33 Village Road. All finishers receive a commemorative award and podium awards are given to the top three male and female finishers in each distance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
