Black Bear Trail Races
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Black Bear Trail Races
The Black Bear Trail Races take place Saturday, August 29, 2026 in Waterville Valley, New Hampshire. The event offers multiple distances starting and finishing near Waterville Valley Town Square.
- 50K
- 23K
- 4 Mile
- 1 Mile Fun Run
Course and logistics
The 50K course circles the 4,000-foot peaks around Waterville Valley and includes about 7,700 feet of cumulative elevation gain. It climbs Snow's Mountain, East Osceola, Osceola, and Tecumseh and returns to Town Square. Multiple aid stations support runners, but the race is cup-less so participants must carry their own hydration system. Required gear for 50K entrants includes a headlamp, extra batteries, at least 2 liters of water, about 400 calories of food, a space or emergency blanket, and a windbreaker or rain shell. A GPX file of the course is highly recommended.
The 23K runs on the oldest maintained trail network in the United States, with terrain listed as 85% double-track, 13% single-track, and 2% road. Three aid stations are planned for the 23K, offering water, a hydration supplement, and nutrition. The 4-mile course covers about 600 feet of climbing on single- and double-track with no road. The 1-mile Bear Cub Fun Run is open to families; children under 13 may sign up for free but must register. Parking is available in lots adjacent to Town Square. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
