California, United States · Date TBA
200 mi +
Badwater 135
217 km Distance
4,450 m Climbing
10.0 Grit · Elite / extreme
What the course asks
Climbing rate 21 m / km
Rolling. Moderate undulations. Requires consistent effort across varying grades.
The Aid Station
Course-specific beta from the community
This is a rolling course. Expect fast, runnable sections where rhythm is key.
With desert terrain, choose a shoe with moderate cushioning for optimal performance.
For 100km+ efforts, prioritize real food at aid stations to prevent palate fatigue.
Gear for this race
Chosen for 217 km of desert with 4,450 m of ascent.
- Trail Running Shoes21 m of climb per kilometre — grip and rock protection before cushioning.
- Race NutritionPast 217 km the palate quits before the legs do — carry more than one flavour.
- Hydration VestsPole attachment and chest-strap stability on steep ground.
- Trekking Poles4,450 m of ascent to walk up.
- Headlamps217 km almost certainly means running into the night.
About
From Death Valley to Mount Whitney, the world's toughest foot race through extreme desert heat.
Highlights
- Starts at -85m below sea level
- Death Valley in July (55°C+)
- Finishes at 2530m elevation