RacesReviewed / Race Intelligence

Never Summer 100km & 60km

The Never Summer 100K is a true Rocky Mountain bucket-list ultra where runners face over 14,200 feet of gain at altitudes consistently above 10,000 feet, transforming what looks manageable on paper into a completely different beast. Reviewers consistently praised the breathtaking alpine scenery — from the scramble to Diamond Peak's 11,852-foot summit where a drummer greets runners, to the tundra traversal past Kelly Lake and Clear Lake — as well as the excellent organization by Gnar Runners and the hot food at night aid stations. However, the technical terrain with zero switchbacks on sustained scree-like climbs, combined with the altitude that makes every step feel like breathing through a straw, demands significant mountain running experience. While the intimate field of ~625 runners and lack of spectator support means you're largely alone in this remote wilderness, the unique wooden log ring award and incredible volunteers help create a memorable, hard-earned accomplishment.