2025 Brazos Bend 100

The Brazos Bend 100 takes place December 6–7, 2025, in Needville, Texas, at Brazos Bend State Park, located south of Houston and Sugar Land. Early December in Southeast Texas typically brings mild to cool temperatures, with daytime highs around 60–65°F and nighttime lows dropping to 45–50°F. Occasional rain is possible during this season, so participants should prepare for potentially wet conditions on the trail. The Brazos Bend 100 is the largest trail race in Texas and one of the fastest trail races globally, featuring a 99.9% flat course composed of crushed rock, hiking trails, and horse trails. The event offers multiple distance options across two days, with exceptional aid station support and a Western States 100 lottery qualifier opportunity for the 100-mile distance.

What distances are available at Brazos Bend 100?

• →100-mile race starting at 6:00 AM on December 6
• →100-kilometer race starting at 7:00 AM on December 6
• →Marathon race starting at 8:00 AM on December 6
• →Half Marathon race starting at 8:30 AM on December 6
• →Free kids race

When does the finish line close?

The finish line closes at 2:00 PM on December 7, 2025.

What is included with race registration?

Registration includes park passes for runners, pacers, volunteers, and reserved campers at Brazos Bend State Park.

Is the Brazos Bend 100 a Western States qualifier?

Yes, the 100-mile race is an official Western States Endurance Run qualifier. Runners who finish the 100-mile distance in under 32 hours earn a lottery ticket for the 2027 Western States Endurance Run. The qualifying period runs from November 3, 2025, through November 1, 2026, with the lottery drawing on December 5, 2026.

How many aid stations are available during the race?

Four aid stations are positioned throughout the course: Elm Lake (main station), 40 Acre Lake, Hale Lake, and Sawmill. The 100-mile course features four aid stations per loop, providing consistent support throughout the race.

What supplies and food are available at aid stations?

Aid stations are stocked with fluids, sodas, electrolytes, sweet and salty snacks, sandwiches, fruit, and hot food served in the evenings. Runners must carry their own hydration devices, as cups are not provided at aid stations.

Are drop bags allowed?

Yes, drop bags are permitted at two locations: Elm Lake and Sawmill aid stations.

Can pacers participate in the race?

Yes, pacers are allowed in both the 100-mile and 100-kilometer races. For the 100-mile distance, pacers are permitted for the final two loops. For the 100-kilometer distance, pacers are allowed for the final loop. Pacers must register for the event, receive bibs, and gain access to aid stations.

What are the rules for crew members?

Crew members are allowed at aid stations but cannot use aid station supplies themselves. They may provide direct support to runners at designated aid station locations.

What awards are given to finishers?

100-mile and 100-kilometer finishers receive buckles. Marathon and Half Marathon finishers receive medals. Cash prizes are awarded to the top three male and female finishers in the 100-mile race: $800 for first place, $400 for second place, and $200 for third place. Age group awards are available across all race distances.

What is the Challenge Coin?

The Challenge Coin is a special award earned by completing both the Brazos Bend 50 (held in April) and the Brazos Bend 100 in the same calendar year.

What merchandise is available?

Event merchandise includes hoodies, long-sleeve shirts, and t-shirts featuring "ugly Christmas sweater" designs. Merchandise will be available at packet pickup and during the race weekend.

When is packet pickup?

Packet pickup occurs at two times: December 1 in Katy, Texas, and December 5 at Elm Lake Pavilion in the park, which also includes merchandise sales.

What is the terrain like on the Brazos Bend 100 course?

The course is 99.9% flat with only a 10-foot elevation gain throughout the entire distance. The trail surface consists of a mix of crushed rock, hiking trails, and horse trails, making it one of the fastest and smoothest 100-mile courses in the world.

How competitive is the 100-mile race?

The Brazos Bend 100 attracts elite runners due to its fast, flat terrain and excellent course conditions. In 2024, the top three finishers all completed the 100-mile distance in under 16 hours. The event also qualified 119 runners for the Western States 100 lottery in 2024.

When does the race typically sell out?

The Brazos Bend 100 race typically sells out by September, so early registration is recommended for those interested in participating.