Black Bear Trail Races
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Event overview
The Black Bear Trail Races take place Saturday, August 29, 2026 in Waterville Valley, New Hampshire, with start and finish near Waterville Valley Town Square (33 Village Rd). Race distances offered are:
- 50K
- 23K
- 4 Mile
- 1 Mile Fun Run
All registered finishers receive a commemorative award. Podium awards are given to the top three male and female finishers in each distance. Registration closes Monday, August 24 at 11:59 PM ET. Post-race snacks are provided.
Course details and logistics
The 50K is listed as roughly 30.8 miles with about 7,700 feet of cumulative elevation gain, and it climbs Snow's Mountain, East Osceola, Osceola, and Tecumseh. Multiple aid stations support the 50K, but the event is cup-less and participants must carry their own hydration system. Mandatory gear for the 50K includes a headlamp and extra batteries, ability to carry 2 liters of water, 400 calories of food, a space or emergency blanket, and a windbreaker/rain shell; gear will be checked at bib pickup. Crews and pacers are not allowed on course. Drop bags are allowed at the start/finish and parking is at the Town Square lots on Village Road.
The 23K is listed as 14.64 miles with about 1,696 feet of gain, with terrain roughly 85% double-track, 13% single-track, and 2% road and three aid stations. The 4 Mile is 4.1 miles with 600 feet gain and mixed single/double-track. The 1 Mile Fun Run is 1.5 miles with 150 feet gain; children under 13 may sign up to run free but must register. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
