About This Race
The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Run follows the spectacular Tahoe Rim Trail, a 165-mile loop that circumnavigates Lake Tahoe through the Sierra Nevada and Carson Range. This challenging 100-mile race takes runners through diverse high-altitude terrain, from dense coniferous forests to exposed granite ridgelines, all while offering commanding views of one of America's most pristine alpine lakes. The course presents significant elevation challenges with over 17,000 feet of climbing, testing runners across varied terrain that includes technical singletrack, rocky descents, and sustained climbs above treeline. The high elevation—much of the course runs between 7,000 and 9,000 feet—demands respect and proper acclimatization. With 20 aid stations strategically placed along the route and a generous 36-hour cutoff, the race attracts both seasoned ultrarunners seeking a bucket-list challenge and those ready to step up from shorter distances. The mid-July timing typically offers ideal mountain weather, though afternoon thunderstorms remain a possibility at elevation.
The 100-mile course follows the renowned Tahoe Rim Trail in its entirety, creating a complete loop around Lake Tahoe. Runners traverse through multiple ecosystems, from lakeside meadows through dense forests of pine, fir, and aspen, up to exposed ridgelines offering panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada. The trail surface is predominantly singletrack with technical rocky sections, root networks, and occasional stream crossings.
Key challenges include the sustained climb from Tahoe City to Watson Lake, the exposed traverse along the Carson Range with minimal shade, and the technical descent back toward the lake. The course's high-altitude nature—with significant portions above 8,000 feet—combined with the varied terrain creates a comprehensive test of mountain running skills and endurance.
Elevation Profile
The course gains 6,453 ft over 102 miles, with the steepest section between mile 27–mile 27.
Course Map
Route shown is approximate and for illustration purposes.
Practical Info
Mid-July typically brings warm, dry conditions with daytime temperatures in the 70s-80s°F at lake level and 60s-70s°F at higher elevations, though afternoon thunderstorms are possible.
RNO - Reno-Tahoe International Airport
Carson City and South Lake Tahoe offer the most lodging options, with numerous hotels and vacation rentals around the lake for those preferring to stay closer to the start area.
Best For
Notable Features
The race's defining feature is its complete circumnavigation of Lake Tahoe, offering runners continuous views of the pristine alpine lake from multiple vantage points. The high-altitude course showcases the diverse ecosystems of the Sierra Nevada, from lakeside beaches to granite peaks, while the Tahoe Rim Trail itself is considered one of America's premier long-distance hiking and running routes.