Runners covered four 19.45-mile laps of a long, beautiful desert track. The Pemberton, Shallmo, and Cinch trails made up the course. Their first loop would also incorporate the Escondido Trail, bringing it up to 22.3 miles to round out the distance. 100-kilometer runners would join them for all of these laps but the last. This is a hot, exposed track, which always brings the potential for heat exhaustion. At night, though, temperatures can drop drastically, and participants can even run the risk of hypothermia.

100-Mile Ultramarathon Winners

This year, Jonathan Rea took first place overall in the 100-mile ultramarathon, setting a new course record of 12:43:10. He was one of three runners that broke 13 hours this year, with Blake Slattengren and Ryan Montgomery joining him. Heather Jackson claimed first among women runners with a time of 14:24:47, nearly snagging a course record herself.

Among the 100km runners, Rajpaul Pannu set an impressive course record, coming in at 7:15:33. Anna Kacius pulled in at second overall with a time of 8:13:07. Fans of the ultrarunning icon Courtney Dauwalter may have spied her on the course as well. She took on the 100km race alongside none other than Tracey Dauwalter—her mom. This family endeavor was a fantastic button toward the end of Courtney’s historic year.

Flamboyant Encouragement

As dusk fell on the course, runners of the “Jackass Night Trail” suited up for their own main event. Donning their most flamboyant rave costumes, their coolest neon glowing accessories, and their running shoes, participants took on a single loop of the Javelina Jundretrack. They were welcomed to spend as much time at each unique aid station as they want, and to party just hard enough to fully enjoy the evening while still being able to make it back to “Javelina Jeadquarters” at the end of the night.

The Javelina 100-miler is a qualifier for the Western States 100–Mile Endurance Run, and a chance for the top two men and top two women to earn respective Golden Tickets. Alongside the excitement of finishing and possibly qualifying for their next prestigious ultramarathon, the Javelina Jundred is a singularly fun event. It’s tough to keep your spirits high in such an insane test of endurance, but it gets much easier when a giant, inflatable squirrel is cheering you on.

The post The Javelina Jundred Starts as a 100-Mile Ultramarathon, Ends as a Rave appeared first on Outdoors with Bear Grylls.

Covering a grueling mix of terrain, competitors make their way through jungle, rivers, and roads until crossing the finish line. In 2023, only six people completed the race. Spencer Matthews and his friend, John Belton, finished third and second respectively. The pair discussed the life-changing experience on an episode of Spencer’s podcast, Big Fish.

Could this be the ultimate and toughest test for the human body? It just may be.

What Is a Self-Sufficient Foot Race?

A self-sufficient foot race means that competitors must carry all essentials with them along the way. This includes food for every stage of the race, a hammock for sleeping in at night, and a medical kit.

However, the more weight you carry, the more difficult the race becomes. Considering the remoteness of the Amazon jungle, additional supplies are impossible to obtain. There are regular checkpoints at each stage with medical staff, water, and health checks, but if you misjudge the amount of food or other items you need to bring, it could mean the end of your race. The conditions of the race mean calories are burned off at an even quicker rate, making planning the correct amount of sustenance especially tricky.

John Belton, who finished this year’s race in second place, noticed other competitors going the extra mile to keep their rucksacks as light as possible. “I saw people cutting their sleeping bags in half or shaving down their toothbrush to half its size to preserve weight,” he says.

‘The Jungle Is a Crazy Old Place’

Inside the jungle, the humidity can be almost unbearable. With a canopy of trees trapping in the air’s moisture, many competitors describe the jungle as feeling like a sauna.

At night, Spencer and John remember the jungle being a feast for the senses, especially at night with all the noise from various insects and other wildlife. “The jungle is a crazy old place . . . It was hard to sleep,” John says.  

The Five Stages of the Race

Breaking each day down into smaller sections can help with the mental challenge of the race—at least to a degree. Here’s what each stage of this race entails:

Day One: 34 km (21 miles)

Starting at a maximum altitude of 2,740 meters (9,000 feet), the air will feel thin. You’ll head down a weaving mountain trail, leading down to the camp for the night.

Day Two: 42 km (26 miles)

Equaling the distance of a full marathon, the second day explores a mix of jungle terrains with sharp climbs and endless river crossings.

Day 3: 25 km (15.5 miles)

Starting with a zip-wire crossing over a white-water river, this adventurous part of the course is full of jungle fun. Explore under the canopy and finish the day at a village camp, where you can meet locals and rest.

Day 4: 28 km or 34 km (17.4 or 21 miles)

Some say this is the most challenging day, being so near, yet so far. With plenty of ascents and descents, there’s a shorter route or longer route to choose from, depending on when you reach the third checkpoint.

Day 5: 50 km or 75 km (31 or 46.6 miles)

The last day of the race is by far the longest in terms of distance, and your body will be feeling the miles. It features a mix of all the terrains experienced thus far. You’ll run through villages, along long road sections, into the jungle, and over water crossings.

Eventually, you will complete the race in the main square of Pilcopata, where locals will cheer you across the line.  

Mental Resilience vs. Being Prepared

Spencer, who has completed several endurance events, described the race as “a roulette wheel of different challenging environments”. His favorite sections were in the jungle, which he found had less impact on his body. 

“Weighing around 88 kg (194 lbs) meant the road sections were not my friend,” said Spencer. He experienced a foot injury, which caused him excruciating pain towards the end, but he just kept going. “The toughest part of the race was getting to the finish line and the last 3 km (2 miles). I had zero left in the tank,” he added.

John remembers seeing how much it meant to the small town and local community as he crossed the finish line. “I remember singing ‘Olé, Olé, Olé’ along with some kids on the final stretch,” he said.

A great adventure and a true test of what the human body can do, the Jungle Ultra is a mental test as much as a physical one. Even with meticulous preparation and excellent fitness, the race is an extreme challenge for even the toughest competitors.

The post Is the Jungle Ultra the Toughest Endurance Challenge In the World?  appeared first on Outdoors with Bear Grylls.

BMJL Women’s Running Shorts - 50% off

Being a runner means you need lightweight clothes that move with you. These women's shorts are 95% polyester and 5% spandex, making them breathable and comfortable. Plus, at 50% off, it’s hard to pass on a $20 pair of shorts, especially when they come in more than a dozen colors.

Russell Athletic Men’s Long Sleeve Performance T-Shirt - 74% off

We’re currently in the shoulder season, the time between the summer heat and the winter chill. Some mornings, you’ll want an extra layer like this long-sleeved shirt to keep you a little warmer on the trail. At 74% off, this comes out to just over $5, so even if it isn’t your go-to base layer, it can be a great backup layer to keep in the car.

Holloway Men’s Crosstown Pants - 25% off

Similar to a long-sleeved layer, having a pair of pants can make a difference as we head towards winter. No one wants to be outdoors and uncomfortable - that’s the easiest way to cut your run short. These pants are moisture-wicking and a good deal for just 20 bucks.

CamelBak Rogue Hydration Pack, 85 oz. - 46% off

If you’re a newer trail runner, this is a great buy. Having a lightweight pack can be essential for long miles in the mountains. You can carry everything from water to snacks to an extra layer of clothing to keep you warm. At 46% off, you’re paying less than $45 for a great entry-level piece of gear. 

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter - 50% off

You may not plan on using this, but trail runners don’t typically plan on getting lost, either. This LifeStraw personal water filter is a recurring Amazon Prime Day Deal for trail runners, and for good reason. The product is simple to use and lightweight enough to throw in your pack for an emergency.

Want to learn more about trail running? Here’s how to get started.

Are you looking for an item you don’t see on this list? Check out the official Outdoors.com store for more gear. 

The post Best Prime Day Deals for Trail Runners appeared first on Outdoors with Bear Grylls.

According to lead researcher Brenda Pennix, 44% of the participants in both groups saw improvements in their mental health. Compared to the group that took the antidepressants, the group that chose running also enjoyed other health benefits, such as decreased blood pressure. However, within the group that chose to exercise, participants only adhered to it about 50% of the time, whereas those who chose medication took it 82% of the time. 

According to the researchers, both interventions are incredibly effective in improving mental health. For those who are willing to stick with it, regular exercise could be an excellent alternative to medication.

The post Running Could Ease Depression Symptoms as Much as Medication, Study Says appeared first on Outdoors with Bear Grylls.

Arizona State Parks recently shared a graphic to help remind everyone whose turn it is.

• First, runners, hikers and bike riders should all yield to equestrians.
• Next up, downhill traffic should yield to uphill traffic, so if you’re hiking down a mountain, you should move for those coming up.
• Finally, cyclists need to yield to everyone.
• If you’re unsure, you can always give other trail users the right of way.

The widely accepted trail etiquette exists for safety and to ensure everyone has a great time outdoors.

Here’s some other outdoor etiquette to remember when visiting national parks. 

The post Who Goes First? Here Are the Rules for Proper Trail Etiquette appeared first on Outdoors with Bear Grylls.

According to a press release, those who know Chad Pallansch last heard from him on Wednesday, September 27. Pallansch was reported missing on September 28, and park rangers found his vehicle at the trailhead. 

Officials say the 49-year-old is an experienced runner, and has run several marathons and often runs in the park.

Last week, Pallansch was attempting a 28-mile route that crosses the Continental Divide and some steep talus slopes. The trail travels through Lake Verna, Mount Alice, Chiefs Head Peak and more. 

On Saturday, more than 55 people from 38 search teams made their way through sections of the park where he may be. Officials say recent winds at high elevations have slowed air operations. 

Pallansch has a navigation device, but it cannot call for emergency assistance.

Park Rangers are continuing to investigate.

The post Search Continues for Missing Trail Runner in Rocky Mountain National Park appeared first on Outdoors with Bear Grylls.

To keep things interesting—and to keep these impressive athletes eternally on their toes—there are plenty of races across the country that seem to exist specifically to push these athletes into what they like to call “pain caves.” Read on to live vicariously through seven of our nation’s finest, and absolutely wildest, races. 

Barkley Marathons 

This 100-plus-miler race in northeastern Tennessee is nearly impossible to finish. The all-time record number of people who have finished a single race? Just three. And that’s only happened twice, ever, in the race’s nearly 40-year history. The route of the race is inspired by the 1977 prison escape of murderer James Earl Ray. It includes five loops that are about 20-miles long. The route traverses several mountains and involves an elevation gain of more than 60,000 feet. Contestants have three sleepless days and nights to finish the race, without a GPS, phones, or any aid stations. No wonder only 17 people have finished the race to date.

Max Vert Challenge

Endurance, persistence, and a whole lot of free time are the name of the game with this unique, month-long running competition organized by Cirque Series. The series got its start during the pandemic when in-person races were canceled, but it’s stuck around with members of the ultra community ever since. Unlike most running competitions, the Max Vert Challenge is remote and can be done from anywhere, although ideally somewhere with a significant amount of steep trails. The goal is to notch as many vertical miles of elevation as possible in the month of October. Last year’s winner, Reid Woolsey, cranked out more than 500,000 feet of elevation over 933 miles, and he ran the same steep trail up to 30 times per day to make those numbers happen.  

Leadville Trail 100 

Lodged in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this rugged race is most famous for its appearance in the groundbreaking ultra running book Born to Run. Over the course of 100 miles, the race forges through 14,200 feet of elevation and takes about a full day of running to complete. The course has a 30-hour cut off and usually only about half of the runners finish. What really makes the Leadville a doozy—besides the punishing ups and downs—is the altitude, which kicks off at around 9,200 feet elevation and leaves runners feeling like they’re breathing through a straw. 

Iditarod Trail Invitational 1000

This Alaska-based endeavor, not to be confused with the sled-dog race, bills itself as “a measure of human willpower like no other.” And honestly, we agree. Winter survival skills are a must, as there is minimal support offered to race contestants, who must carry all their food, water, and gear on a sled strapped to their bodies, occasionally picking up restocks at remote villages buried deep in the Alaskan wilderness. Contestants can choose to take the race on fat bikes, skis, or foot. To qualify for the full race, which spans 1,000 miles of the Iditarod Trail from Knit to Nome, contestants must first complete the Iditarod 350 to even be considered. The journey takes about a month and the weather is frequently inhospitable, ranging from -50 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit and often involving gale force winds, rain, blizzards, waist-deep snow, mud, and glare ice. 

HURT 100

Consider yourself warned—this race has the word “hurt” in it for a reason. While most people associate Hawaii with serene beaches and Mai Tais, this Oahu ultra race is considered one of the most challenging 100-milers in the world. Runner Sabrina Stanley describes the trail as “riddled with roots that intertwine with each other . . . some layered so thick they hit you at the knees.” In addition to crazy roots “acting as constant tripwire,” there are also slippery rocks, chaotic staircases, and chest-high rock walls that must be conquered all over the trail, Stanley adds.  

Badwater 135

This 135-mile race, cutting straight through California’s Death Valley in mid-July, proves that ultra running truly has no bounds. As one of the hottest places on Earth, Death Valley creeps upwards of 125 degrees Fahrenheit and can dehydrate runners almost immediately. While runners’ shoes do routinely melt on the asphalt during this race—sometimes multiple times in a race—we were surprised to learn that, somehow, no one has ever died running this race. On top of profound heat and dryness, the Badwater also climbs from the lowest point of California to the highest contiguous peak in the United States: Mount Whitney, which stands 8,300 feet tall. 

Moab 240

Deep in the Moab Desert, this 240-miler beckons runners from all over the world. It traverses canyons, mesas, and two whole mountain ranges, climbing 29,400 feet in the process. At the starting line, runners recite the following: “If I get lost, hurt, or die, it’s my own damn fault.” After five days, anyone who hasn’t finished the race is disqualified. Weather ranges from brutal dry sun to frigid snow, while runners fight everything from hallucinations to dehydration. 

The post The 7 Most Absurd Ultra-Running Competitions in the U.S.  appeared first on Outdoors with Bear Grylls.

If you’re new to trail running, let’s go through the gear you need to get going, and we’ll provide a couple of beginner tips along the way.

Gear That Gets You Moving

Hydration Vest

The quickest way for a run to go very wrong is to forget your water. If you’re sticking to short trail runs, you could get by with a hand bottle, but chances are you’ll eventually want to stay out a little longer. For this, a hydration vest brings convenience, and if you’re bringing out a liter or more, it feels much more natural to have the weight on your back rather than in one of your hands.

There’s a whole lot of pockets, bells, and whistles that will vary between different vests. You’ll have to use some discernment regarding which fits your personal taste and body type. Take the time and try some on before you buy. Be mindful of how the vest fits around your underarms, since that area can be particularly prone to chafing. And once you pick one up, make sure to keep that reservoir clean.

Clothing

Merino wool should be what you reach for first. Not only is it comfortable but it wicks sweat beautifully, so you’ll want it as a base layer. Beyond that, run in whatever’s comfortable. Courtney Dauwalter, ultra marathoner and trail runner extraordinaire, runs exclusively in basketball shorts.

When it comes to running in inclement weather, traditional rain jackets can feel smothering. A light, packable wind shell can probably fit in one of your hydration vest pockets. For wet and cold conditions, a softshell jacket is a good choice. Neither of these options will be perfectly waterproof, but they should get you through your run. In the heat, make sure you’ve got the sun protection you need.

The Right Footwear

Maybe you’ve heard the saying, “Don’t compromise on anything between you and the ground.” This applies to car tires, beds, and perhaps most importantly, shoes. Trail running shoes may be the single most impactful purchase you make as you get started. Everyone’s feet are different, though, so we can’t tell you exactly what shoes to buy.

That said, here’s some guiding advice. First, go up half a shoe size, just as you would buying hiking boots. This is to account for how your feet will swell on a run. Next, consider how much cushion you want. If you tend to heel strike, a high-cushion shoe will be for you. Runners that stay predominantly on their midfoot or forefoot may thrive in shoes with less cushion, and they’ll be able to more easily feel and respond to the ground beneath them. 

Those are a couple major points, but there’s a whole world of shoes out there. Try on as many as you can until they feel right.

Socks are the easy part. Go with merino wool again. Sock liners or double-layered socks can help prevent blisters.

Tracking Device

While you’re free to embrace a natural run without the aid of technology, there are as many reasons to track your run as there are elements to track. Having a sense of your heart rate is a great indicator of your health, and it’s smart to keep an eye on your pace, especially as you’re just getting started. Ease into this hobby to avoid injury. Looking back at the distance and the elevation change you’ve covered provides a concrete sense of pride after each run, and apps like Strava can give you all of these stats, along with some social media bragging rights.

For these purposes, you’ll want to wear a smartwatch or pick up a holder for your phone. These aren’t necessary, especially for beginners, but if you’re going somewhere unfamiliar, it’s smart to have some way to navigate or contact help should something go wrong. Even on a familiar trail, be sure to let someone know where you’re going and how long you plan to be gone.

Everything Else

For longer runs, stashing some electrolytes, gels, or sports gummies in your hydration vest can give you an energy boost in the middle of your outing. Granola bars and other, heartier foods can come in handy too. Just be mindful of how it will sit in your stomach as you run.

If you’re leaving anywhere close to dark, you’ll need to pack a headlamp. Double check that your clothing has some reflective strips, so you can be seen. If you can’t find clothing with reflective strips built in, it’s worth finding a reflective band or two to wear, especially if you’ll be anywhere near a road.

For hikes with particularly difficult climbs, it may not be a bad idea to bring some trekking poles along, too. Some hydration vests have elastic pockets meant for storing them.

Lace Up and Fly

Trail running is hard, but the hardest things are worth doing, and the view from the top is unlike anything else. As you stride through peaks and valleys, you’ll run into internal hurdles too—the difficulties and moments of ease that come with challenging yourself physically. 

Surely, running out on the trails is better than beating the same old pavement day after day. It’s an endless mountain to climb, but each run is its own summit, and it’s all yours.

The post How to Hit the Ground Running: Essentials for Beginner Trail Runners  appeared first on Outdoors with Bear Grylls.

He recently went viral for this post involving kangaroos on the trail.

Bice is quick to narrate the interaction and sends some encouragement to the four marsupials up ahead.

He often runs in South Australia around Chambers Gully. That is just outside of Adelaide, a city of 1.3 million people. 

In another video, Bice runs into another well-known Australian animal, the koala.

“Sometimes I get the feeling that someone is following me,” Bice says as a tiny koala follows behind. 

Hopefully, all these fun interactions and running pays off for Bice. He’ll attempt the UTMB this weekend, a race considered the crown jewel in the trail-running world.

The post Watch: Runner in Australia Goes Viral for What He Spots on Trail appeared first on Outdoors with Bear Grylls.

The lovely marketing team at Dr. Squatch reached out and asked if I wanted to try some of their products, and how could I turn down free soap? They sent me three full-sized bars of soap, two sticks of deodorant, and a bottle of lotion. Here’s how it went.

Can Dr. Squatch Stand up to Sensitive Skin?

I am always hesitant to try new skincare products. As someone who has had very sensitive skin her entire life, trying new skincare and soaps doesn’t always end well. However, knowing that this company uses safe and natural ingredients to make their soaps, I gave it a go.

I am also an avid hiker and runner, so I need some good soap after my morning workout or after a long day on the trails. Like Honnold, I also found that I love this soap. Dr. Squatch sent me three bars, one with no grit, one with light grit, and one with medium grit, to really give me a variety. Free Solo has a medium grit, which makes for a great cleanse and exfoliant all in one, without irritating my sensitive skin. The scents in their products also last all day, meaning I feel fresh even as I’m heading to bed, which is a great feeling as a morning-shower person.

My Personal Favorite and Final Verdict

Out of all of the products I received as a test, I know for a fact that I will be repurchasing the lotion. I grew up with eczema, and putting lotion on at the beginning and end of the day has become a bit ritualistic for me. The cool fresh aloe in the Dr. Squatch lotion feels great after a long day and applies so smoothly after a shave that I have truly become a Dr. Squatch fan for life. 

I’ve also been working hard to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle, and switching from my go-to body wash to Dr. Squatch soap bars will definitely help my goal, since their soap comes in cardboard boxes. Also, as a brand, they refuse to use chemicals that can harm people or the environment.

I was incredibly pleased with everything Dr. Squatch sent, and though they’re a brand marketed to men, they’ve made this woman a fan. 

Alex Honnold said in his promotional video that he likes Dr. Squatch because his wife likes how he smells after he uses it—and she was definitely right. My household has become Dr. Squatch users, and we all smell great.

The post Here’s How Dr. Squatch Soap Held up to Sweat and Sensitive Skin appeared first on Outdoors with Bear Grylls.