Trail landscape for The Mammoth — 5K

The Mammoth — 5K

5K·Glen Rose, TX

Photo by Shakti Rajpurohit on Unsplash

Distance5K
Gain
DateOct 10, 2026
StatusTBA
FeeFree
Difficulty3/5

About This Race

The Mammoth presents a fascinating case of conflicting data that requires careful interpretation. The ITRA listing describes a massive 214-mile loop through California's Eastern Sierra, circumnavigating an ancient caldera around Mammoth Lakes with 21 aid stations and a 112.5-hour time limit. However, the website data clearly shows a different race series based in Texas, offering multiple distances from 5K to 100K at locations like Glen Rose and High Hope Ranch. Given the discrepancy between the ITRA data (which appears to describe an ambitious ultra-distance concept) and the actual operating website (which shows established Texas trail races), runners should verify current race details directly with organizers. The Texas-based events feature classic Hill Country terrain with generous cutoffs, family-friendly atmospheres, and traditional trail race amenities including finisher buckles for 100K participants. The race organization emphasizes environmental responsibility with a bring-your-own-bottle policy and offers volunteer credits that function as race entry currency. Multiple distance options make these events accessible to runners across skill levels, from the Mighty Mammoth 1K kids' race to the 100K ultra with its 26-hour cutoff.

Based on the website content, the Texas-based Mammoth races feature classic Hill Country terrain with mixed trail and road sections. The courses wind through pristine natural landscapes at venues like High Hope Ranch, a 1,000-acre eco-retreat dedicated to wildlife habitat protection. Terrain varies by distance but generally offers well-marked trails with generous aid station support and scenic routes through protected Hill Country ecosystems.

Practical Info

Weather

October in Texas Hill Country typically features mild temperatures with warm days and cool mornings, ideal for trail running.

Nearest Airport

DFW - Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport

Accommodation

On-site camping available for $10 per person. High Hope Ranch offers guest house accommodations with limited availability. Partnered hotels in Glen Rose provide discounted rates including breakfast.

Best For

First-time ultra runnersTrail runners seeking family-friendly eventsTexas Hill Country enthusiasts

Notable Features

The Mammoth Race series distinguishes itself through its strong community focus, offering multiple distances at single events to accommodate families and varied skill levels. The volunteer credit system provides monetary value for race support, while the environmental consciousness shows through bring-your-own-bottle policies. The Texas Hill Country setting at protected ranch properties adds ecological education to the racing experience.