Bridger Ridge Run

Ed Anacker Bridger Ridge Run

The Ed Anacker Bridger Ridge Run is a remote and aesthetic ~20 mile foot-race along the crest of the Bridger Mountains, near Bozeman in Southwest Montana. It is a not-for-profit event enabled by about as many volunteers as participants.

Race Sponsorship

The Bridger Ridge Run is put on & sponsored by the Big Sky Wind Drinkers, which is a premier running club for runners of all ages and abilities. Some videos, photos, and history of this event can be found on this Big Sky Wind Drinkers webpage.

Remote and Technical!

• Challenging Terrain: Essentially the entire route involves unstable footing, challenging ascents, brutal descents, and unpredictable weather along an exposed ridge.
• Mountain Experience: Experience with mountain running is important.
• Access to Route: No part of the route can be accessed by a road.
• Cupless Race: Participants must carry their own water vessels to be filled at aid stations.

Volunteering

This entire event is enabled through volunteer effort. We offer a diversity of volunteering opportunities -- some well in advance of the event, and some during the event. Check out our Volunteer page for specific opportunities.

Registration Process

The number of participants is limited to 250, as per the permit we receive from the US Forest Service. We developed an application process intended to offer broad participation in this special event while also rewarding volunteering, local non-profit organizations, and general commitment to our community.

• Lottery System: Anyone seeking to register for this event must submit an application to our lottery.
• No Wait List: We do not use a "Wait List".
• Notification: All applicants will be notified of their status before the close of May, shortly after the registration window closes.
• Email Updates: We will send periodic emails to registered participants with detailed instructions and information about the event.

Cancellation Policies

If a registered participant cancels their participation in the race after signing up, they will not be granted a refund. The event may impose strict rules of participation, or cancel the event altogether, due to reasons such as forest fires or CDC guidelines.

Pre-Race Meeting

Participants, especially first-timers, are strongly advised to attend the pre-race meeting which will take place at 5:30pm the Friday before the Start at the Fish Hatchery. This meeting will cover all sorts of specific information, including:

• Conditions and Weather: Up-to-date conditions and weather predictions.
• Route Description: Discussion of the route and answers to any questions.
• Race Rules: Detailed race rules, including disqualification policies.
• Logistics: Discussion of race-day logistics, including how to arrive at the Start Line.

Start Line Logistics

The race starts at 6:30am at the Fairy Lake Trailhead. Each participant must arrange their own transport to the Start Line. There is no shuttle to the Start line from either the Finish Line or the parking area at HRDC.

• Carpooling: Participants are encouraged to park at HRDC and self-organize carpooling to the Start Line.
• Start Waves: Registered participants will be grouped into Start Waves, each spaced 5 minutes apart.
• Wave Assignments: Assigned wave numbers will be announced to registered participants by email.
• Timing: Each participant's finishing time will be recorded according to when their assigned wave starts.

Route Description

Here is a link to a downloadable GPS file of the route, including aid stations and other information.

• Starting Point: The route begins at Fairy Lake parking area (elevation 7,600') and follows a clearly defined trail.
• Elevation Changes: The route involves climbing Sacagawea peak (elevation 9,650') and continues along the Bridger ridge to Baldy Mountain (elevation 8,900').
• Cut-off Times: Participants must arrive at specific points by designated cut-off times.
• Reporting Drops: If a participant drops out of the race, it is imperative that they notify an Aid Station Lead.

Finish Area

The Finish Line is at the Fish Hatchery, by the Drinking Horse Trailhead. The Finish Area will have a medical team, snacks, and aid for participants. Awards will be given to top three overall finishers in each gender category.

• Awards Ceremony: Awards will be announced and given as categories are filled.
• Post-Race Celebration: Everybody is invited to enjoy BBQ, beverages, and good spirits at the Finish Area.
• Shuttle Service: A shuttle bus will be operating between the Finish Area and HRDC.
• Map to HRDC: Map: HRDC to Finish Area

Results

Muddy Dog Sports does the timing for the race. Results can be found on My Race Results.