2026 Bel Monte Endurance Races

The 2026 Bel Monte Endurance Races (BMER) will take place on March 14, 2026, in Lyndhurst, United States, at the Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley Beach House, also known as Shenandoah Acres, within the George Washington National Forest trail system. The event is set in the Shenandoah Valley, Virginia, where participants will experience a mix of challenging terrain, including 65% single-track trails, 30% jeep/gravel roads, and less than 5% pavement. On the day of the event, the expected weather in Lyndhurst is likely to be mild, with temperatures ranging between 40°F and 55°F and a low chance of precipitation, creating ideal conditions for trail running. The races feature a unique blend of technical and runnable sections, with significant elevation changes and a focus on endurance, all within a friendly, inclusive atmosphere that welcomes runners of all levels.

What is the event name and date?

The event is the 2026 Bel Monte Endurance Races (BMER), scheduled for March 14, 2026.

What is the event location and venue?

The event takes place at Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley Beach House, also known as Shenandoah Acres, within the George Washington National Forest trail system in Shenandoah Valley, Virginia.

What is the terrain composition of the event?

The terrain is composed of approximately 65% single-track trail, 30% jeep/gravel road, and less than 5% pavement, offering a varied and challenging experience for runners.

What are the race events and course details?

The event features three races:

• →50 Mile Trail Race: 49.5 miles with 8,600 ft of elevation gain/loss, 85% single/double track trail, 13% gravel, 2% pavement, with a time limit of 14:00 hours and a start time of 5:30 AM.
• →50k Trail Race: 31 miles with 5,200 ft of elevation gain/loss, 85% single/double track trail, 13% gravel, 2% pavement, with a time limit of 12:00 hours and a start time of 6:30 AM.
• →25k Trail Race: 15.4 miles with 2,541 ft of elevation gain/loss, 80% single/double track trail, 10% gravel, 10% pavement, with a time limit of 5:00 hours and a start time of 7:30 AM.

What are the course profiles for each race?

• →The 50 Mile Trail Race is an out-and-back course with challenging climbs, including a longest climb of approximately 6 miles from Stony Run Aid Station to Kennedy Trail.
• →The 50k Trail Race features a mix of technical and runnable sections with challenging climbs within scenic forest trails.
• →The 25k Trail Race is a loop course starting and finishing at the venue, offering a balanced mix of runnable and technical trail segments.

What are the time limits for each race?

• →50 Mile Trail Race: 14:00 hours
• →50k Trail Race: 12:00 hours
• →25k Trail Race: 5:00 hours

What are the start times for each race?

• →50 Mile Trail Race: 5:30 AM
• →50k Trail Race: 6:30 AM
• →25k Trail Race: 7:30 AM

Is there a contingency plan for weather conditions?

Yes, a Snow Course is implemented if the Blue Ridge Parkway closes due to weather.

What is the start/finish location?

The start and finish are at Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley Beach House, with less than 2 miles from trailhead access.

Are there accommodations available for participants?

Yes, cabins are available on-site for participants.

What is the course access like?

The race begins with less than 1 mile on pavement, after which the remainder of the course is entirely within the George Washington National Forest trail system.

What is the course character?

The course features dynamic out-and-back and loop formats that change year-to-year, with both technical rocky sections and faster runnable segments.

What should runners expect in terms of elevation and terrain?

All courses feature significant elevation changes and technical trail sections, requiring runners to train for mixed terrain.

What is the event's atmosphere like?

The event is described as friendly and inclusive, with a community-focused approach that encourages running with friends or tackling a first ultra.

Are the races UTMB qualifiers?

Yes, all three races are UTMB qualifiers.

What is the significance of the event's timing?

The early start times accommodate the distance and daylight considerations, ensuring that runners have sufficient time to complete the course.

What is the purpose of the event?

The event is created by ultra runners for ultra runners, featuring stunning single-track trails in the George Washington National Forest, making it a perfect spring ultra in the Eastern US.