Summary
Each July, around 100 of the world’s toughest ultrarunners race 135 miles from Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park to Whitney Portal above Lone Pine, taking on one of endurance sports’ most legendary challenges.
Most people spend July trying to escape Death Valley.
About 100 ultrarunners voluntarily run straight into it.
Every July, the Badwater 135 returns to Inyo County, sending athletes on an unforgettable journey from Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park—the lowest point in North America—to the finish line above Lone Pine at Whitney Portal, the gateway to Mount Whitney.
Often called “The World’s Toughest Foot Race,” the Badwater 135 has become one of the most iconic ultramarathons in the world, attracting elite endurance athletes who come to test themselves against one of the harshest environments on Earth.
Is Badwater Really the World’s Toughest Foot Race?
Badwater has earned its reputation.
The race is regularly mentioned alongside legendary endurance events like the Barkley Marathons, Hardrock 100, and Marathon des Sables. What makes Badwater unique isn’t just the distance—it’s the environment.
The race takes place in the heart of summer, when Death Valley routinely records temperatures above 115°F, with pavement temperatures climbing even higher. There are no shaded forests or cool mountain streams—just open desert, endless highway, and relentless heat.
For most competitors, the goal isn’t setting a record.
It’s simply reaching the finish.
The Route
The race begins at Badwater Basin, 282 feet below sea level, the lowest point in North America.
From there, runners travel north through the heart of Death Valley before crossing three mountain ranges and making the final climb up Whitney Portal Road above Lone Pine.
By the finish, competitors have completed:
- 135 miles
- Three mountain ranges
- A climb from 282 feet below sea level to 8,360 feet above sea level
- One of the hottest road races on Earth
Every mile is earned.
An Invitation, Not a Registration
Unlike most races, you can’t simply sign up for Badwater.
The event is invitational, with applicants required to demonstrate years of ultramarathon experience before being considered. Each year, roughly 100 runners from around the world are selected, making the starting line one of the most accomplished fields in endurance sports.
Simply earning a bib is an achievement.
It Takes a Team
Badwater isn’t just a race for runners.
Every athlete is accompanied by a dedicated support crew traveling behind them in a vehicle, supplying water, ice, food, electrolytes, fresh shoes, and medical support throughout the race.
Success at Badwater is rarely an individual accomplishment. Behind every finisher is an entire team working together to keep one runner moving forward through one of the most unforgiving landscapes on Earth.
Experience Badwater in Inyo County
For one week every July, Death Valley and Lone Pine become the center of the ultrarunning world.
Athletes, support crews, photographers, and spectators from around the globe fill local hotels, restaurants, coffee shops, and campgrounds as they follow one of endurance sports’ most celebrated events.
If you’re visiting Inyo County during race week, there are plenty of ways to experience the excitement.
Watch runners gather at Badwater Basin before the start, explore the incredible landscapes of Death Valley National Park, then make your way to Lone Pine and Whitney Portal to cheer on athletes as they complete their 135-mile journey.
The final climb up Whitney Portal Road is one of the race’s most inspiring moments. Exhausted runners dig deep for the last few miles while family members, volunteers, and spectators line the finish, celebrating every athlete who crosses it.
You don’t have to run 135 miles to appreciate the accomplishment.
Sometimes, all it takes is ringing a cowbell, cheering for a stranger, and witnessing what the human body—and spirit—is capable of.
Whether you’re a seasoned ultrarunner or simply looking for a uniquely Inyo County experience, the Badwater 135 offers an unforgettable glimpse into one of the world’s most extraordinary endurance events.
