Big Sky Marathon
Race snapshot
Race Day
50–84°F · Feels mild
Total elevation gain
Moderate rolling hills · Net elevation change −3,800 ft
Crowd Rating
Quiet course sections
The Lowdown
The Big Sky Marathon is a high-altitude downhill marathon in Montana that descends the Gravelly Range to the Madison River. The course drops nearly 4,900 feet in total, a net descent of over 3,800 feet, and 96% of it is on unpaved, packed and loose gravel. It starts at 7:00am and finishes at Varney Bridge Fishing Access Site outside Ennis, where marathon, half marathon and 50K finishers share an after-party with local brews and bites. The 2027 edition drops the out-and-back loop to and from Highway 287, and the new course is posted on Garmin. Prizes go to the first and second place male and female finishers.
Questions about the Big Sky Marathon 2027
When is the Big Sky Marathon 2027?
Sunday, July 11, 2027.
Where is the Big Sky Marathon?
Ennis, Montana, United States.
What time does the Big Sky Marathon start?
The race starts at 7:00 AM, local time.
How do I enter the Big Sky Marathon 2027?
Registration is open. Aug 1, 2026: Registration Opens.
How much does the Big Sky Marathon 2027 cost?
Marathon: $100.
What is the Big Sky Marathon elevation gain?
1,000 ft (305 m) of total elevation gain. Net elevation change: −3,800 ft (1,158 m). Moderate rolling hills.
What is the Big Sky Marathon course like?
It passes Gravelly Range, Madison River and Varney Bridge Fishing Access Site.
What is the weather like at the Big Sky Marathon?
Race-day temperatures are usually 10–29 °C (50–84 °F). Feels mild.
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