Lean Horse Ultra Marathon 2026
The Lean Horse Ultra Marathon takes place on August 1, 2026, in Custer, South Dakota, within the scenic Black Hills region. Participants will navigate the George S. Mickelson Trail, a renowned rails-to-trails route characterized by smooth, crushed limestone surfaces and non-technical terrain. Expected weather conditions for early August in Custer typically include daytime highs around 79°F (26°C) and nighttime lows near 53°F (12°C). This event offers a fast, runnable experience with gradual elevation changes, making it a popular choice for those seeking consistent pacing or attempting their first ultra-distance race.
What distances are available for this event?
- →100 Mile: An out-and-back course starting at the Custer YMCA
- →50 Mile: An out-and-back course starting at the Custer Track
- →30 Mile: An out-and-back course starting at the Custer Track
- →20 Mile: An out-and-back course starting at the Custer Track
- →30 Mile Black Hills CrossFit Edition: A mixed-terrain relay format (Singles, Teams of 3, or 6) featuring trail running and functional fitness movements
What is the event schedule and timing?
- →100 Mile / Relay Packet Pickup: Thursday from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- →100 Mile / Relay Start: Friday at 12:00 PM (Saturday cutoff at 8:00 PM)
- →50 Mile Start: Saturday at 5:00 AM
- →30 Mile & 20 Mile Start: Saturday at 8:00 AM
What are the course characteristics and terrain?
The race utilizes the George S. Mickelson Trail, which consists of a smooth, crushed limestone surface. The terrain is non-technical and follows an old railroad bed, providing a very gradual elevation profile. This makes the course ideal for runners targeting personal records or those preferring a consistent, runnable path over rugged, technical trails.
Where can I find the course maps and GPX files?
Detailed navigation resources are available through the following links:
- →100 Mile Map: Leanhorse ↗
- →GPX File: Leanhorse ↗
- →Aid Station Details: Leanhorse ↗
What is the elevation profile for the different distances?
- →100 Mile: Starts at 5,316 ft, reaches a max elevation of 6,262 ft, with a total climb of 7,162 ft
- →50 Mile: Starts at 5,356 ft, reaches a max elevation of 5,870 ft, with a total climb of 3,269 ft
- →30 Mile: Total climb of 2,582 ft
- →20 Mile: Total climb of 1,908 ft
What should I consider regarding altitude and weather?
While the terrain is non-technical, the race takes place at a high elevation ranging from 5,300 to 6,200 ft. Runners not acclimated to high altitudes may find the long, gradual climbs and exposure more challenging than the surface suggests. August weather is generally mild, but the combination of altitude and sun exposure should be factored into pacing strategies.
What amenities are provided during the race?
The event features aid stations along the course that include bathrooms (either permanent or portable facilities). For the 30 Mile Black Hills CrossFit Edition, specific functional fitness movements are integrated into the aid stations as part of the relay format.