Burney Mountain 100

Burney Mountain 100: A Journey Through Lassen National Forest and Thousand Lakes Wilderness
Northern California’s Burney Mountain 100 is an awe-inspiring ultra marathon that loops through the pristine landscapes of Lassen National Forest, the Burney Basin, and the rugged Thousand Lakes Wilderness. Starting and finishing at the serene Burney Mountain Guest Ranch, runners traverse a route shaped by nature's whims—four possible course variations ensure flexibility based on snow conditions while preserving the essence of this challenging yet breathtaking adventure.
The event’s unique feature is its adaptability to seasonal changes: Course A offers an exclusive summit trek up Magee Peak in low-snow years. Courses B, C, and D adjust upper-elevation sections according to prevailing weather conditions, ensuring a safe but exhilarating journey through varied terrain. Regardless of the year or route chosen, participants can expect remote wilderness areas teeming with volcanic peaks, dense forests, and expansive high-country vistas.
With approximately 15,000 feet of cumulative elevation gain, runners face steep climbs and descents that challenge both body and spirit. The course weaves through rocky ridgelines, soft forest trails, open slopes, and deep wilderness singletrack, providing a dynamic experience from start to finish. Panoramic views include the majestic Mount Lassen, towering Mount Shasta, Hat Creek Rim, and vast volcanic landscapes.
The race begins at dawn, 4:30 am sharp, allowing runners to witness the mountains awakening as light spills across forests, lakes, and peaks. This early start captures some of the most memorable moments of the entire journey, setting a serene yet invigorating tone for the day ahead.
Beyond its physical demands, Burney Mountain 100 is an immersive experience into Northern California’s volcanic wilderness. Whether threading through dense forest or scaling above treeline, each mile pulls runners deeper into this awe-inspiring landscape. The race also includes a trail work and volunteer requirement starting in 2027—8 hours of trail maintenance or 12 hours as a race volunteer.
Participants camp at the Burney Mountain Guest Ranch for free dry camping Thursday through Saturday nights, with lodging upgrades available upon request. Amenities include a restaurant, saltwater pool, laundry facilities, and cornhole games. The ranch is ideally situated near numerous attractions like Burney Falls, Lava Tunnel, Lassen National Park, Chalk Cave, Hat Creek, Pit River, Baum Lake, and Lake Britton.
For those unable to make the race day due to unforeseen circumstances, generous deferral options are available up until one week before the event. Runners can also transfer their registration to another participant within 24 hours of the start time. These policies ensure flexibility while maintaining high standards for all participants.
The Burney Mountain 100 is more than a race; it’s an unforgettable adventure through some of California's most stunning natural beauty, inviting runners to explore and reconnect with nature in profound ways.