Conquering the Trail — Beaverhead Endurance Runs 100K

My Trail Marathon Experience. Beaverhead Endurance Runs 100K

My Trail Marathon Experience. Beaverhead Endurance Runs 100K

In 2018, I took on one of the toughest ultra-trail marathons in the U.S., the Beaverhead Endurance Runs 100K, a grueling 62-mile challenge along the Montana-Idaho state line. Though the race ended in a DNF (Did Not Finish) for me, the journey was unforgettable and set the stage for redemption.

A Rocky Start to Marathon Training

The year started strong. My training mileage was high, and I tackled multiple trail ultramarathons to prepare, including the Arches Ultra in Moab, Desert Rats near Grand Junction, and Greenland Trails 50K. Everything was on track until an unexpected life event (a home purchase) shifted my priorities. Between renovations, work travel, and financial commitments, my training consistency suffered.

Despite setbacks, I remained determined. I had already booked my trip to Salmon, Idaho, for the Beaverhead 100K, so I decided to give it my best shot, even if I wasn’t at peak fitness.

The Beaverhead Endurance Runs 100K is no ordinary race. As a Western States Qualifier and UTMB points earner, it attracts serious endurance runners. The course winds along the Continental Divide Trail, featuring diverse terrain: rocky climbs, smooth trails, alpine meadows, and challenging descents. The breathtaking views almost make you forget the pain. Almost.

The race started at Bannock Pass, and for the first 26 miles, I felt strong. The well-marked trail, high-energy aid stations, and supportive runners kept me going. But after mile 26, the real test began.

The Breaking Point. Mile 42

The heat, elevation, and my lack of proper training started catching up with me. Long climbs drained my energy, and my legs refused to cooperate. By mile 47.5 at Gold Stone Pass, I faced my toughest decision. The 13-hour cutoff loomed, and mentally, I had already checked out. I sat down, accepted my DNF, and called it a day.

I felt defeated. But in hindsight, running nearly 48 miles on a rugged mountain course was still an achievement.

The next morning, instead of sulking, I registered for another ultra: Lean Horse 50-Miler in South Dakota. A month later, I completed it, matching my personal record.

Determined to conquer Beaverhead, I committed to better training. I raced local 50Ks, placed 7th at Snow Mountain Ranch 50K, and set a PR at Bear Chase 50K. This time, I was stronger, more prepared, and mentally ready.

The Trail Always Wins

Ultra-trail marathons test your limits. Sometimes you win, sometimes the trail does. But each experience teaches you resilience. No race is truly a failure, every step is a lesson.

Key Takeaways from the Beaverhead 100K

  • Training consistency matters – life changes can derail plans, but adaptability is key.
  • Mental strength is just as important as physical endurance.
  • Even a DNF is an accomplishment – running 47+ miles is no small feat.
  • Redemption is always possible – setbacks are just setups for comebacks.

Now, I look ahead to my next challenge. Because once you fall in love with the trail, there’s always another mountain to climb.