John Colter Run
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Event overview
The John Colter Run is held at Missouri Headwaters State Park in Three Forks, Montana. The event is limited to 300 participants. Registration for the 2025 edition opened on April 1, 2025. Awards are given to overall top male and female finishers, age-group winners, the youngest and oldest runner, and additional special awards. The first 50 runners who beat a designated "John Colter" to the Beaver Dam (about 6.5 miles in) receive a special prize. A post-race barbecue with beer and live music follows the race.
Course and logistics
The course is approximately 7 miles long: the first 1.5 miles are on a paved/gravel country road and the remaining 5.5 miles are on rugged, cross-country style trails. The trail includes two railroad crossings - the first crossing is about 1.5 miles from the start and will have trains stopped and a crossing guard; the second crossing requires running under the railroad bridge and through water and mud. The final quarter mile includes two water crossings, including the Gallatin River, with water potentially up to waist deep and mud that can reach knee depth. A safety rope will be secured across the river. One water station is located at approximately 4 miles. Parking at the park is limited. Walkers and dogs are not permitted. Porta potties are available at the start area only. Race shirts are awarded only to finishers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.