Your Guide to Fall Endurance Events in Mammoth Lakes

October 22, 2026

Each autumn, Mammoth Lakes becomes a beacon for endurance athletes—drawing cyclists, runners, climbers, and obstacle racers to train and compete at elevation. With crisp mountain air, a vibrant community, and breathtaking Sierra scenery, it's the ideal destination for high-altitude training and fall adventure. Plan your getaway around these standout events.

Mammoth Gran Fondo Century Ride – Sept 12, 2026

The Mammoth Gran Fondo is an iconic ride offering three stunning route options—102, 70, or 42 miles—starting and finishing in The Village at 8,074 ft elevation. The grueling 102-mile route climbs 6,804 ft through closed roads winding past iconic Eastern Sierra landscapes like Mono Lake tufas, volcanic craters and the White Mountains, with six fully stocked rest stops, clothing drops, and professional support. Launched with a dramatic mass start, this Fondo was named a top-10 century ride by Bicycling Magazine. After crossing the finish line, riders celebrate with free food, beer, live music, awards, and camaraderie—all in The Village’s post-ride festival. Join this high-alpine challenge and celebrate its special 30th anniversary year!

group of cyclists biking on paved road with mountains in the background

Mammoth TUFF – Sept 18–20, 2026

Part of the UCI Gravel World Series, TUFF challenges riders over rough and scenic terrain in the Long Valley and Volcanic Tablelands. Choose from 40-mile “TUFF,” 60–75-mile “TUFFER,” or the elite UCI-qualifier 85–100-mile “TUFFEST” course—each offering rugged gravel and paved sections, with elevation gains ranging from 2,300 to over 7,400 ft. Aid stations dot the route, along with on-course mechanical support. Beyond the ride, enjoy group pre-rides, a Friday beer mile, and a Village wrap party with live music and local eats.

Three bikers take on the gravel path in the 2026 Mammoth TUFF bike race through the Mammoth Lakes area and surrounding region. Photo shows mountains in the background with lush yellow rabbitbrush along the road.
Credit: Kim Espinosa Photography

Mammoth Trailfest – Sept 24–27, 2026

Under the guidance of local trail legend Tim Tollefson, this growing trail running festival offers unreal views paired with a strong sense of community. The Trailfest offers a range of distances winding through alpine meadows, golden aspen groves, and fragrant sagebrush - from a hillclimb ascent race up the iconic Dragon's Back, a nighttime 10K, or an intense 50K. Expect supportive workshops, evening gatherings with live entertainment, delicious local food, and a welcoming atmosphere without the competitive edge.

Runners wait for their queue at the starting line of a race

The Mammoth – Oct 2–6, 2026

The ultimate ultra challenge. The Mammoth is a 208 mile loop through alpine lakes, volcanic desert, and remote mountain trails featuring 32,000 feet of climbing. Starting and finishing in The Village, the route delivers one of the most epic endurance adventures in the Eastern Sierra. Expect high elevation, serious mileage, and unforgettable moments that push your physical and mental limits.

Runner heads down the trail towards Convict Lake, with Mammoth Mountain in the background during the ultra running event The MAMMOTH
Credit: Jason Peters//The MAMMOTH

Plan Your Visit to Mammoth Lakes Endurance Events

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Visit Mammoth
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Visit Mammoth
Unreal. There is no better way to describe Mammoth Lakes, California. A place so majestic that breathtaking views surround you in every direction. The staff at Mammoth Lakes Tourism is committed to stewardship, education, providing the ultimate visitor experience, and keeping the Real Unreal.
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