John Colter Run
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John Colter Run
The John Colter Run is a trail race held at Missouri Headwaters State Park near Three Forks, Montana. The event is scheduled for September 19, 2026, and the field is limited to 300 runners. There is no race day registration.
The course is approximately seven miles long. The first 1.5 miles follow a paved or gravel country road. The remaining about 5.5 miles run on largely rugged, cross-country style trails. The route includes two railroad crossings and two water crossings in the final quarter mile. Runners must pass under a railroad bridge and ford the Gallatin River, where water can reach waist depth; a safety rope will be secured across the river. Trail markers include rock cairns, flags, stakes, tipis, skulls, bones, and small green cones.
Parking at the park is limited and some parking areas are served by a shuttle. Central park spots are reserved for emergency and race support vehicles.
Finish awards include overall top male and female, age-group winners, youngest and oldest runner, and other special awards. The first 50 runners to beat the event pace marker at about 6.5 miles receive a commemorative water bottle. A post-race barbecue with beer and live music follows the finish. Runners are advised to prepare for varied mid September weather and to bring a change of clothes. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.