Beast of the Backroads
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Event overview
Beast of the Backroads is a multi-discipline bike and run event held in Longview, Texas on a private ranch. The event dates are March 14-15, 2026. Bike, run and ruck options are offered on paved county and FM roads that form a loop through Longview, Hallsville, Harelton and Marshall. The 100-mile bike loop includes about 7,000 ft of elevation gain. The historic average temperature range is given as 57-69 degrees.
Distances
- 100 mi bike
- 65 mi bike
- 25 mi bike
- 10 mi run
- 5 km run
- 10 mi ruck
Race logistics, gear and awards
All courses start and finish at the same location. Courses are on open public roads; participants should expect traffic, potholes, fallen limbs, water and possible animals. Riders must carry a communication device and wear an approved bike helmet; head and tail lights and high-visibility clothing are highly recommended. Ruck weight rules: 30 lb if over 150 lb body weight, 20 lb if under 150 lb. Aid stations are positioned by mile; full aid stations offer hot/cold food, snacks, water, electrolytes, pickle juice and ice, while blue stations provide water only. The 100-mile bike event pays cash to the top five men and women (first through fifth listed). Event swag includes a hoodie, T-shirt and water bottle; finishers receive a medal for running events and a ruck patch for the 10-mile ruck. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.