About This Race
Named after Jim Bridger, the legendary mountain man known as "Old Gabe," this race traverses the rugged terrain of Montana's Gallatin Valley where Bridger trapped and explored in the 1840s. The Old Gabe stands as one of the most challenging 50K races in the world, featuring over 11,000 feet of elevation gain across technical mountain terrain. The course follows an M-shaped route through the Custer Gallatin National Forest, demanding significant climbing through four major ascents that test even experienced mountain runners. With a cap of 130 participants and minimal aid, this race emphasizes self-sufficiency and mountain running skills. The race serves as an excellent training ground for other mountain ultras, though many consider it a formidable challenge in its own right.
The race begins at Middle Cottonwood Trailhead and follows an M-shaped out-and-back route entirely on mountain trails. Runners first climb 2,300 feet to Saddle Pass, then descend through snow-prone Bostwick Canyon before dropping into Truman Gulch. The return journey retraces this path before continuing to Sypes Canyon, adding another major climb and descent. The course features rocky, technical terrain with minimal flat sections, stream crossings, and challenging switchbacks where trail cutting is strictly prohibited. Snow and mud conditions are common, particularly in the canyon sections.
Elevation Profile
The course gains 1,614 ft over 31 miles, with the steepest section between mile 56–mile 56.
Course Map
Route shown is approximate and for illustration purposes.
Aid Stations
5 stations along the course
Middle Cottonwood Trailhead
water, electrolyte, food
Start/finish and main aid station
Saddle Pass
water, electrolyte
Self-serve water or volunteers with gel/electrolytes
Truman Gulch
water, electrolyte, food
First major aid station and drop bag location
Middle Cottonwood (Return)
water, electrolyte, food
Must return here before continuing to Sypes, 12:30 PM cutoff
Sypes
water, electrolyte, food
3:00 PM cutoff, 9-hour cutoff for 50K runners
Practical Info
Mountain conditions in June can range from warm and sunny to cold with snow, particularly at higher elevations and in canyon areas.
Best For
Notable Features
This race honors the legacy of Jim Bridger, the famous mountain man and explorer who helped map the American West. The challenging M-shaped course design creates a unique racing experience with multiple major climbs and descents. The race maintains a small-field atmosphere with only 130 participants, emphasizing the self-reliant spirit of early mountain exploration. All finishers receive an Old Gabe hat, connecting modern trail runners to the region's frontier heritage.
Prepare for This Race
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GEAR GUIDE
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A tested guide to the best hydration vests for ultra marathons and long trail races — from lightweight racing vests to high-capacity mountain packs.
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A thoughtful guide to choosing your first ultra marathon — what to look for in a course, how to evaluate difficulty, and five races worth considering.
FROM THE TRAIL
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Elevation profiles reveal the true character of a trail race. Learn to read the shape of a course and understand what it means for your race day experience.