John Colter Run

John Colter Run is a classic trail race at Missouri Headwaters State Park near Three Forks, Montana. The 7-mile course begins with about 1.5 miles on a paved/gravel road, then 5.5 miles of rugged trail marked with cairns, flags, skulls, bones, and beer bottles. The route features two railroad crossings; trains are paused at the first, and runners must go under the tracks and through water and mud.

Finish-area water crossings include knee-deep mud and waist-deep Gallatin River with a safety rope. Held in September, the event caps at 300 participants, offers prizes for top finishers and the first 50 to beat John Colter to Beaver Dam, plus a post-race BBQ with live music. Finisher shirts awarded. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.