Big Bend Ultra
Big Bend Ultra offers a unique trail running experience under the darkest skies in the lower 48.
Race Date
Jan 17, 2027
Location
Terlingua, TX
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, January 17, 2027
- Location
- Terlingua, Texas
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 6.1 Miles, 19 Miles, 55k, 62 Miles
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Big Bend Ultra, first conceived in 2004, is a testament to ambitious trail running in one of the most remote and stunning landscapes in the United States. Held annually, this event tackles the logistical challenges of Big Bend's vastness, scarcity of resources, and isolation to deliver a truly unique race experience.
The course winds through Big Bend, a region renowned for its dramatic desert vistas and exceptionally dark skies, offering unparalleled stargazing opportunities. Runners can expect a challenging yet rewarding experience, embracing the raw beauty of this expansive park.
This race is more than just a competition; it's an immersion into a wild and beautiful environment. The isolation that defines Big Bend also provides a profound sense of peace and a chance to connect with nature, making it a destination for those seeking an adventure off the beaten path.
Race-provided description
In 2004, a wild idea was hatched: an ultra trail race in Big Bend. It had never been done. The logistics were impossible. Big Bend national and state parks are huge: over 300,000 acres and several hours from San Antonio. Water is scarce. Fuel is scarce. Transportation is scarce. The isolation also means it has lowest light pollution of any park in the lower 48 states: making it a fantastic place for stargazing. This was the beginning of a truly great event that has been held annually ever since. This year Carroll Voss, Erik Stanley, and the team of volunteers and competitors with Trail Roots are looking forward to the best race yet.
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, January 17, 2027
Start Time
8:30 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt
Start Location
21800 FM170, Terlingua, TX, 79852
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Desert
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
3 timing sources · 8 photos
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 65°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
40°
Afternoon (High)
65°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.0"
Precipitation
14 mph
Wind
35%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Big Bend Ultra?
The Big Bend Ultra is held on Sunday, January 17, 2027, starting at 8:30 AM.
Where does the Big Bend Ultra take place?
It takes place in Terlingua, Texas.
What distances does the Big Bend Ultra offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 6.1 Miles, 19 Miles, 55k, 62 Miles.
Is the Big Bend Ultra course flat and good for a PR?
The Big Bend Ultra is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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