The Big Bend Ultra, one of Texas’ most remote and challenging trail races, will return for its 23rd annual running on Sunday, Jan. 17, 2027, with a newly added 100-kilometer event and revised course distances across multiple divisions.
Race organizers said registration will open in July 2026 for the event, which is part of the Texas Trail Championship series and takes place at the Barton Warnock Visitor Center in Big Bend Ranch State Park.
The race will feature distances of 10K, 20K, 35K, 55K and a new 100K single-loop course. Organizers said the 100K race will be limited to 100 მონაწილants and will include a strict 20-hour cutoff as the event debuts its longest distance in the rugged terrain of West Texas.
Courses for the 35K and 55K events have been redesigned, offering more single-track trail and elevation gain. The 10K route has also been modified into an out-and-back course with no aid stations due to limited vehicle access.
All races begin and end near the Barton Warnock Visitor Center, with parking located nearby. Officials said the course traverses extremely remote terrain with no cellular service and limited access for crews or spectators, with only one aid station reachable by vehicle.
Finishers will receive handmade clay medals and a post-race meal, while 100K finishers will also earn a buckle. Awards will be given to top overall male and female finishers, masters division winners and age group leaders.
Organizers said the event traces its origins to 2004, when the concept of an ultra trail race in the vast and isolated Big Bend region was considered logistically daunting due to scarce water, fuel and infrastructure.
The race area is recognized as a gold-tier Dark Sky Park, offering some of the clearest night skies in the lower 48 states.
A portion of proceeds will benefit Friends of Big Bend Ranch State Park and the Big Bend Trail Alliance, which support trail maintenance and conservation efforts in the region.
