It’s one of the most difficult 100-mile races anywhere on the planet, not just the Northeast. And you can now sign up for its next running.
The notorious Jigger Johnson Ultras return to Waterville Valley, New Hampshire on August 13-15, 2027.
The event known for its brutal climbs and terrain features a 20-mile version and a 50-mile version. But it’s the 100-mile version that has rapidly earned its reputation as one of the toughest 100-milers anywhere in the world.
The out-and-back course is actually 108 miles and includes nearly 30,000 feet of elevation gain.
Needless to say, this is not a race for rookies. (And probably not intermediates.) Participants will need to be comfortable following maps and GPS data that organizers will provide, and runners will be required to upload that info to their watch/phone/GPS.
The course will be unmarked. Organizers said the signage is easy to follow, but runners will need to pay attention.
Organizers say that due to the remote and rugged nature of the 100-mile course, participants will need to have completed a 50-mile run within the past year or a similar mountain effort. The 50-mile run should be one with significant elevation gain and time on feet.
For those who spend time in the mountains, organizers said treks like a Pemi Loop and Kilkenny Traverse are all acceptable. They want participants to be familiar with long mountain days.
The 50-mile course is no picnic either, with roughly 16,000 feet of elevation gain. Participants in that event will need to have completed a 50K within the past year or a similar mountain effort. Organizers said that qualifying 50K should be one with significant elevation gain.
The course will have aid stations, but also some long stretches without aid where runners should be comfortable filtering water if necessary, especially if it is a hot day.
Learn more about the 2027 Jigger Johnson Ultras here.
