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Bandera 100K
Race Details:
- Location: Bandera, TX, USA
- Race Date: 01/09/2027
- Race Distances: 100 Kilometer, 50 Kilometer, Ultra Marathon
What This Race Counts Toward:
Western States 100: Yes
UTMB Index: Yes
Bandera 100K Description
The Bandera Endurance Trail Race offers 100K, 50K, and 25K distances each January at Hill Country State Natural Area near Bandera, Texas, traditionally the first major points race of the ultrarunning season. The 100K covers two 31-mile laps of rocky, technical terrain studded with cactus and limestone, while the 50K and 25K share the same demanding course over shorter distances. A Western States and UTMB Index qualifier at 100K, the race draws a competitive field eager to open their season on one of the toughest courses in the country.
Always check the official race website for the most accurate and up-to-date race information and logistics.
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Bandera 100K Additional Details:
Bandera earns its reputation as one of the most technical 100Ks in the country, with rocky, root-strewn singletrack that shreds shoes and legs alike long before the finish. Six aid stations dot each 31-mile lap, including Nachos and Chapas, both offering crew access and hot food for runners fueling up before the next climb. January weather swings wildly here, from freezing overnight temperatures and slick, muddy trail to bright Hill Country sun by afternoon, so layering is part of race strategy. As the traditional season opener for many ultrarunners chasing a Western States or UTMB qualifier, Bandera draws a stacked, competitive field despite its remote setting, and finishers earn bragging rights for surviving one of Texas’s toughest courses.
Course Information
Profile: Hilly
Type: Multiple Loops
Surface: Trails
Pace Groups: No
Time Limit: 25 hours
# of Finishers
50K: 118 finishers in the 50K race
100K: 232 finishers in the 100K race
Elevation Details
Elevation Gain: 6,600 ft
Elevation Loss: 6,600 ft
Average Temperature
- Low: 40°F
- High: 62°F
Train Smarter for Race Day
A great race starts long before the starting line. Whether you’re chasing your first finish or hunting a new PR, a structured training plan takes the guesswork out of race prep — building your fitness, your confidence, and your mileage at the right pace for you.
Explore plans for every distance and experience level, from your first 5K to your next ultra.
Ultramarathon Training Plans
Explore structured plans across every ultra distance, from your first 50K to 100 miles and beyond.
Things to Do in Bandera, TX, USA
Make the most of race weekend — here’s how to fill the time before and after you cross the finish line.
Outdoors & Trails
Hill Country State Natural Area
Saddle up or hike through the scenic canyons and creeks of the Hill Country State Natural Area, just outside Bandera — a low-impact way to explore Texas Hill Country on tired legs.
Food & Drink
Bandera General Store
Cool down with a hand-scooped Blue Bell malt, milkshake, or banana split at the Bandera General Store, a Main Street staple open daily — a relaxed, low-key way to refuel.
Museums & History
Frontier Times Museum
Browse an eclectic mix of local curios, art, and Hill Country history at the small Frontier Times Museum on Bandera’s main street — an easy, indoor stop for tired legs.
Landmark
Historic Downtown Bandera
Wander the storefronts of Historic Downtown Bandera, the self-proclaimed Cowboy Capital of the World, steeped in dude ranch and Old West heritage — an easy, flat stroll.
Scenic Drives & Viewpoints
Bandera City Park on the Medina River
Picnic or wade along the Medina River at Bandera City Park, with shaded riverside views throughout the Cowboy Capital of the World — a flat, relaxing rest-day spot.
Arts & Culture
Bandera Gunfighters
Catch a live Old West gunfight reenactment put on by the Bandera Gunfighters on the historic courthouse lawn, complete with music and special guests — a relaxed, low-impact show.
Sports & Entertainment
Mansfield Park Rodeo Arena
Catch a PRCA rodeo or the Friday night summer series at Mansfield Park Arena, home of Bandera’s ProRodeo tradition — a relaxed, seated way to spend an evening.
Hotels & Lodging Near the Bandera 100K
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