Black Hills 100

Running through the scenic trails of South Dakota, the Sturgis to Silver City Ultra Race offers an unforgettable endurance challenge for trail runners. The race features multiple distances including the grueling 108-mile course that winds from Sturgis back to itself via Silver City and beyond, as well as a more manageable but equally challenging 50-mile route starting in Silver City.
The journey begins at dawn with the full marathoners setting out on June 26th. Starting early morning from Woodle Field parking lot adjacent to City Park, participants will be bused up to their respective start points for an epic adventure through rugged terrain and serene landscapes.
For those tackling the longest distance, the race kicks off in Sturgis at sunrise with runners following a mix of paved bike paths and dirt trails. The course weaves along the Fort Meade trailhead before venturing onto the Centennial Trail, which offers miles of singletrack interspersed with stretches of old logging roads and ATV paths. Runners will encounter breathtaking vistas as they traverse this challenging route.
The 50-mile race starts in Silver City early on Saturday morning for a return journey to Sturgis via the Deerfield and Centennial Trails. The terrain here is equally varied, featuring beautiful singletrack sections that wind through forests and open landscapes.
Aid stations are strategically placed along all routes, with drop bags permitted at designated points like Elk Creek and Dalton Lake for those needing extra provisions during their long journey. Each aid station provides essential supplies to keep runners fueled and hydrated throughout the race day.
The 50K course offers a taste of trail running without committing to an ultra distance. Starting near Dalton Lake Trailhead, this route follows Runkle Road before heading north towards Sturgis on the Centennial Trail. With three aid stations along its path, it’s perfect for runners looking to test their limits in rugged terrain.
The 30K race is designed as a gentle introduction to ultra running, starting from near Elk Creek and finishing back at City Park. This shorter distance allows participants to experience the beauty of South Dakota's trails without overextending themselves.
All events conclude by late evening on June 26th with runners returning to Sturgis City Park for an exhilarating finish line celebration. The race is organized under special use permits from both the US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, ensuring that participants can enjoy these beautiful landscapes responsibly while contributing positively to their preservation.
Registration fees range from $150 for the 30K up to $400 for the full marathon distance, with sign-ups available until May 31st. This event promises an unforgettable adventure through some of South Dakota's most stunning natural settings, perfect for trail runners and ultra-distance enthusiasts alike.