Hardrock 100 2027 stands out for its announced numbers: 101.8 miles (around 164 km) and a positive and negative elevation gain of 33,441 ft, meaning more than 10,000 metres of climbing and the same amount of descent. The average altitude is stated as above 3,400 metres, with a highest point of 4,282 metres at the summit of Handies Peak.
The race takes place in the San Juan Mountains, in the south-west of Colorado, with a start and finish in Silverton. The route passes through, among other places, Telluride, Ouray and the former mining town of Sherman, and it forms a loop. It alternates 4×4 tracks, trails and off-trail sections, with an organisation in place since 1992.
The direction of the course changes every year: after the 2026 edition run clockwise, 2027 is announced as being run anti-clockwise. This peculiarity is part of a history of editions sometimes being cancelled, notably due to snow conditions, wildfires or the pandemic. The travel logistics and the reading of the terrain may therefore change from one year to the next.
The difficulty highlighted is based on altitude, with a race that averages over 11,000 feet, many sections above 12,000 feet, and a highest point above 14,000 feet. At these altitudes, the organisers say the pace that’s possible is no longer much like that of an ultra in a typical mid-mountain setting, and runners regularly move above 3,600 metres.
To take part, Hardrock 100 2027 is scheduled for 9 to 11 July 2027, with a start time announced for 6:00 a.m. on 9 July in Silverton. Entries for the 2027 lottery must be submitted from 1 to 14 October 2026 via UltraSignup, with a draw planned for 5 December 2026. Participation also involves an eight-hour service, and a bib number displayed at $450.
