Ely Mountain Trail Race
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Event Information
The Ely Mountain Trail Race takes place on August 2, 2026 in the mountains above Shaver Lake, California. The start and finish location is Balsam Forebay.
Race Courses
The event offers two trail running distances:
- 14K (8.7 miles): This course has approximately 1,800 feet of total climbing, including a 1,000-foot ascent of Ely Mountain. It passes over granite terrain and includes smooth singletrack and dirt roads, finishing with a descent. The course has a 3.5-hour time limit.
- 8K (4.9 miles): This route also ascends Ely Mountain but follows a slightly easier path, featuring about 800 feet of climbing.
Event Details
All participants receive a custom event shirt and a finisher medal. Post-race food and refreshments are provided. A morning coffee vendor will be on-site.
For the 14K race, there is a special King & Queen of the Mountain challenge awarding $100 each to the top male and female runner with the fastest time on the designated Ely Mountain climb segment, as determined by Strava.
Awards are given for the top three overall male and female finishers in each race, as well as age group awards in 10-year increments.
Logistics
Bib pickup is available on the day before the race in Fresno and on race morning at the venue. Parking is along a dirt road shoulder near the entrance to Balsam Forebay off Highway 168; carpooling is encouraged.
Aid stations are located on both courses, supplying GU Roctane drink, GU gels, water, and snacks. The courses are marked with orange ribbon, flags, and cones, with signage at turns. The trails are multi-use, shared with hikers and mountain bikers.
The event is capped at 250 total runners. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
