The Badwater 135 Ultra Race: A History and What to Expect on July 7

In 1987, five runners gathered in Death Valley early in the morning with plans to run to Mount Whitney — the highest point in the contiguous U.S. — in California. The daring group included Eleanor Adams, Jean Ennis, Tom Crawford, Ken Crutchlow, and David Bolling. Each runner completed the 146-mile course that year, which marked the first official organized race.

One year later, the second 146-mile race commenced, later followed by the third in 1989. However, the race distance changed to 135 miles as, according to the Badwater timeline, the original finish line was illegally placed at the summit of Mount Whitney. Now, the race ends at Whitney Portal, the Mount Whitney trailhead, which runners must reach within the 48-hour time limit.

The Renowned Badwater 135 in Recent Years

Over the years, the race has continued to gain more traction and has quickly become one of the most grueling ultramarathons in the world. The starting line is at Badwater Basin in Death Valley, the lowest point in North America. Temperatures in this location can often rise above 120 degrees Fahrenheit, adding immense risk to the already challenging race.

In 2024, there were 97 starters in Badwater Basin, but only 74 had an official finish. Unlike the initial years, the race kicks off at night, minimizing early heat exposure, but don't be fooled — the challenge will remain haunting.