Blacktail Balderdash
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Blacktail Balderdash
The Blacktail Balderdash is an inaugural off-trail adventure footrace located at the Blacktail Mountain Ski Area in Lakeside, Montana. Organized by the Floral Park Mountain Club, this event emphasizes navigation and improvisation over traditional speed. Between designated checkpoints, there is no marked course, requiring participants to choose their own route through the woods and mountainous terrain.
The event takes place within a landscape featuring dense forests, native plants, and wildflowers. From various points on the mountain, participants can see views of the Swan Range and Glacier National Park. Because of the off-trail nature of the event, the specific routes are not revealed until the day before the race at packet pickup, and final distances are approximate based on the navigation choices made by the participants.
Available distances include:
- 5 Miles (Green Course): Includes ski cuts and off-trail travel with approximately 3,000 feet of elevation gain.
- 10 Miles (Blue Course): Explores the varied terrain of the ski area with approximately 5,000 feet of elevation gain.
- 20 Miles (Black Course): Consists of two loops of the Blue Course with approximately 10,000 feet of elevation gain.
Aid stations are located along the courses, stocked with nutrition and hydration options. Following the race, there is a celebration featuring food, beverages, and an awards ceremony. Participants on the 20 Miles course have the option to stop after the first loop and receive a finish for the shorter distance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
