John Colter Run

🏃‍♂️ Race Details

• Date: September 19, 2026
• Time: 9:00 am sharp
• Location: Missouri Headwaters State Park – one mile south of Trident and about 6 miles northeast of Three Forks, MT
• Access: Take Exit 278 off I-90, follow signs to Headwaters State Park and Trident. Parking is limited: please carpool.

🌲 The Course

• Length: Approximately 7 miles
• Terrain: First mile and a half on paved/gravel road, remaining 5.5 miles on rugged trails
• Crossings: Two railroad crossings, with BNSF stopping trains at the first crossing
• Trail Markings: Marked with rock cairns, flags, stakes, skulls, bones, and beer bottles

💧 Water Crossings

• First Crossing: Goes under the railroad bridge: mud can be knee deep
• Second Crossing: Gallatin River with water up to waist deep
• Safety: A safety rope will be secured across the river
• Extras: Bring an extra change of clothes for the awards ceremony and refreshments

🎁 Awards and Prizes

• John Colter: Chase down the "John Colter" for a chance to win
• First 50 Runners: Win a special prize for beating John to the Beaver Dam
• Finish Awards: Presented for overall top male and female, age group winners, youngest and oldest runner, special awards for notable efforts
• Post-Race Celebration: Join us for a barbeque with beer and live music

⚠️ Important Information

• Bibs: Race bibs cannot be given or sold to others if you cannot run
• Participant Limit: Limited to 300 participants: registration opens on April 1, 2026
• No Refunds: No refunds for entry fees if you cannot run
• Cancellation: 50% refund if canceled for extraordinary reasons, with the option to donate

🚫 Restrictions

• Walkers: Not permitted due to time constraints
• Dogs: No dogs allowed on the race course
• Facilities: One water station at approximately 4 miles: porta potties only at the start
• Weather: Rain and snow do not constitute a cancellation event

🤝 Sponsors

Thanks to our sponsors: Headwaters State Park, BNSF, GCC, Main Street Over Easy, Bozeman Speedy Lube, Bozeman Running Co., Bobcat ROTC, Gallatin County Search and Rescue, Lerhkinds, Yellowstone Bank, Dark Horse Construction, and Muddy Dog Sports (Timing).

🔗 More Information

For more details, please visit the official race page: John Colter Run.