Western States 100: The World’s Most Iconic Ultra Trail Race
The Western States 100 Endurance Run is widely considered the most legendary 100-mile race in trail running. Held annually in California, the race covers 100 miles (161 km) through the Sierra Nevada mountains, taking runners from Olympic Valley to Auburn.
As the oldest 100-mile trail race in the world, the Western States 100 has become a bucket-list event for trail runners everywhere. Its combination of history, competition, extreme heat and unforgettable scenery makes it one of the most sought-after race bibs in endurance sports.
What Is the Western States 100?
The Western States 100 was first held in 1977 and is often credited with helping to popularize ultrarunning worldwide.
The race follows much of the historic Western States Trail, originally used by Native Americans, gold miners and later by participants of the famous Tevis Cup horse race.
Today, the event attracts elite athletes and amateur runners from across the globe. Due to overwhelming demand, gaining entry through the Western States lottery is often a challenge in itself.
Western States 100 Course
The race starts in Olympic Valley, near Lake Tahoe, and finishes at Placer High School in Auburn, California.
Key statistics:
- Distance: 100 miles (161 km)
- Elevation gain: approximately 5,500 metres
- Elevation loss: approximately 7,000 metres
- Maximum altitude: over 2,600 metres
- Cut-off time: 30 hours
The course features a unique combination of mountain trails, river crossings, forest tracks and historic paths.
Unlike many mountain ultras, Western States is known for being highly runnable. However, its relentless descents and often brutal temperatures create challenges that are unlike any other 100-mile race.
The Famous Canyons
One of the defining features of the Western States 100 is its series of deep canyons.
Runners descend and climb through Deadwood Canyon, El Dorado Canyon and Volcano Canyon during the hottest part of the day. Temperatures frequently exceed 35°C and can sometimes approach 40°C.
These sections have become legendary within the ultrarunning community. Many runners consider heat management to be just as important as physical fitness when preparing for Western States.
The American River Crossing
Among the most iconic moments of the race is the crossing of the American River.
After more than 120 kilometres of running, participants reach the river before beginning the final section toward Auburn. Depending on race conditions, runners either cross the river directly or use an alternative route.
For many competitors, reaching this point marks the beginning of the final push toward the finish line.
The Auburn Track Finish
The race concludes at Placer High School in Auburn.
Entering the athletics track after 100 miles has become one of the most emotional moments in trail running. Spectators, volunteers, family members and crews gather throughout the night to welcome runners across the finish line.
Whether chasing victory or simply aiming to beat the 30-hour cut-off, every finisher receives the same unforgettable reception.
Western States 100 Course Records
The Western States 100 has witnessed some of the greatest performances in trail running history.
Men's Course Record
Jim Walmsley set the men’s course record in 2019 with an extraordinary time of 14 hours, 09 minutes and 28 seconds.
His performance remains one of the fastest 100-mile trail races ever completed.
Women's Course Record
Courtney Dauwalter established the women’s course record in 2023, finishing in 15 hours, 29 minutes and 33 seconds.
Her performance shattered the previous record and further cemented her status as one of the greatest ultrarunners of all time.
Recent Western States 100 Winners
Winning Western States is considered one of the highest achievements in ultrarunning.
Men’s Winners
Year | Winner | Time |
|---|---|---|
2025 | Caleb Olson | 14:11:25 |
2024 | Jim Walmsley | 14:13:45 |
2023 | Jim Walmsley | 14:13:45 |
2022 | Adam Peterman | 15:13:47 |
2021 | Jim Walmsley | 14:46:01 |
Women’s Winners
Year | Winner | Time |
|---|---|---|
2025 | Abby Hall | 16:37:16 |
2024 | Katie Schide | 15:46:57 |
2023 | Courtney Dauwalter | 15:29:33 |
2022 | Katie Asmuth | 17:15:13 |
2021 | Beth Pascall | 17:10:46 |
These results demonstrate the exceptional level of competition the race attracts every year.
Why Is Western States So Difficult to Enter?
Western States is famous not only for its course but also for its highly competitive entry process.
To enter the lottery, runners must first complete a qualifying race. Even after qualifying, many applicants wait several years before finally obtaining a bib.
The combination of limited entries and worldwide demand has transformed Western States into one of the most exclusive races in trail running.
Why Every Trail Runner Dreams of Western States
Few races possess the history, prestige and atmosphere of the Western States 100.
From the high country near Lake Tahoe to the canyons of California and the famous finish in Auburn, the race offers an experience unlike any other in the sport.
For some runners, Western States represents the ultimate competitive challenge. For others, it is a journey through trail running history. Either way, completing the Western States 100 remains one of the greatest achievements in endurance sports.
What Do Runners Think of Western States?
Every year, runners from around the world describe Western States as a unique combination of challenge, community and tradition. While the heat and distance make it one of the toughest races in North America, participants often highlight the incredible support from volunteers and spectators as one of the event’s defining characteristics.
If you’ve run Western States, consider sharing your experience and race review to help future runners prepare for one of trail running’s most iconic adventures.