Angeles Crest 100 mile endurance run
Race facts
- Start time
- 5:00 AM
- Distances
- 100 Miler
- Terrain
- Trail, Hilly
- Elevation gain
- 6,096 m
- Organizer
- AC100
- Registration
- Open
From the official race website, checked 2026-09-29. Official page
External Event
Distance
6.2 mi
Pace
All paces (very slow for most)
Terrain
Trail, Hilly
Difficulty
Extremely Difficult
About this run
The Angeles Crest 100 Mile Endurance Run, first held in 1986, is one of the original 100-mile endurance events in the United States. This challenging race winds through the rugged San Gabriel Mountains, offering spectacular scenery alongside demanding terrain. The 36th annual event in 2026 will feature a modified 100.8-mile loop course starting and finishing at Loma Alta Park in Altadena, California. Runners can expect steep climbs, rocky trails, and remote backcountry. The course navigates through areas like Clear Creek, Josephine Peak, Red Box, and Mt. Wilson before returning to the finish. The AC100 is known for its demanding nature, requiring significant physical and mental preparation. The race emphasizes the journey and the experience of traversing the San Gabriel Mountains on foot, with training runs and trail workdays being an integral part of the event's community. Finishing the AC100 is a significant accomplishment, with various awards recognizing achievement. Finishers receive a plaque and t-shirt. Those completing the race under 24 hours earn a Solid Sterling Silver buckle, while others receive bronze buckles based on their finishing time. Special awards are also given for breaking course records and for multiple finishes.
Who it's for
This event is designed for highly experienced ultra-runners seeking a significant challenge due to its 100-mile distance and demanding mountain terrain with substantial elevation gain.
What to expect
- The 2026 course is a 100.8-mile loop starting and finishing at Loma Alta Park in Altadena, CA.
- Runners should be prepared for approximately 20,000 feet of elevation gain.
- Lottery registration for the 2026 event opens September 19, 2025, and closes September 29, 2025.
- A 50+ mile qualifier race completed between January 1, 2025, and September 3, 2026, is required.
- Trail work must be completed by September 3, 2026.
- Runners should check the official registration page for details on the lottery process and any changes to the course or requirements.
Good to know
- The race is one of the original five 100-mile endurance runs in the US.
- The 2026 event is the 36th running of the Angeles Crest 100 Mile Endurance Run.
- Refunds are available: 50% up to May 1, 2026, and 25% up to September 1, 2026.
Typical conditions
For events around October 2026 in Wrightwood, United States: Typical autumn conditions in this region — conditions can change quickly; confirm race-day guidance on the official page.
How to prepare
Trail events reward time on uneven surfaces and hills. Practice footing and bring the shoes and hydration the organizer recommends — details vary by race.
Find races near youGetting there
This event is listed in Wrightwood, United States. Confirm the exact start venue, parking, and transit options on the official registration page.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Angeles Crest 100 Mile Endurance Run?+
The Angeles Crest 100 Mile Endurance Run is a 100-mile ultra-marathon held in the San Gabriel Mountains near Altadena, California. It is one of the original 100-mile races in the United States.
When is the 2026 Angeles Crest 100 Mile Endurance Run?+
The 2026 Angeles Crest 100 Mile Endurance Run is scheduled for Saturday, October 3, 2026.
What is the course for the 2026 race?+
The 2026 course is a modified 100.8-mile loop starting and finishing at Loma Alta Park in Altadena, CA, with approximately 20,000 feet of elevation gain.
How do I register for the 2026 Angeles Crest 100?+
Registration for the 2026 event is via a lottery. The lottery opens on September 19, 2025, and closes on September 29, 2025. Runners should visit the official registration page for details.
Are there any qualification requirements?+
Yes, runners must have completed a 50+ mile qualifier race between January 1, 2025, and September 3, 2026. Trail work must also be completed by September 3, 2026.
What are the awards for finishers?+
All finishers receive a plaque and t-shirt. Specific buckles are awarded for finishing under 24 hours (silver), between 24-33 hours (bronze), and for solo division achievements. Special awards exist for course record breakers and for multiple finishes.
What is the refund policy?+
A 50% refund is available until May 1, 2026, and a 25% refund is available until September 1, 2026.
Where can I find more information?+
Runners should consult the official registration page at ultrasignup.com for the most up-to-date information.
Registration is handled by the official event organizer
Know a local group? Host a community run in Wrightwood






