Best 50-Mile Races for Beginners | Top Beginner-Friendly Ultras

by

Running a 50-mile ultramarathon is an exciting challenge, and choosing the right race can make all the difference. If you’re new to the ultra scene, you’ll want a race with manageable terrain, great support, and generous cutoffs. Here are some of the best 50-mile races that are beginner-friendly.

Top 50-Mile Races for Beginners

1. Lake Sonoma 50 (California, USA)

This scenic race offers stunning views of Lake Sonoma and rolling hills. While it has some elevation gain, the course is well-marked, and the race support is outstanding. Runners experience single-track trails with a mix of technical and runnable sections. The moderate difficulty and beautiful setting make it a great choice for first-time 50-milers.

2. JFK 50 Mile (Maryland, USA)

As the oldest ultramarathon in the US, the JFK 50 is a perfect first ultra with a mix of road, towpath, and trails, making it a well-balanced challenge. The Appalachian Trail section is the most technical, but the majority of the course is smooth and runnable. The strong community support and historical significance make it an excellent race for beginners.

3. Ice Age Trail 50 (Wisconsin, USA)

A well-organized race with runnable trails and gentle rolling hills. This event is a favorite among first-time ultra runners. The Ice Age Trail offers beautiful wooded scenery with a mix of dirt paths and some rocky sections. The well-stocked aid stations and friendly volunteers help ensure a positive race experience for beginners.

4. Rocky Raccoon 50 (Texas, USA)

Featuring a mostly flat and smooth trail through the Sam Houston National Forest, Rocky Raccoon is an excellent beginner-friendly race. The soft dirt trails reduce impact on joints, making it a great option for first-time ultra runners. With multiple loops, participants get familiar with the course and aid stations, adding to their confidence throughout the race.

5. Dead Horse Ultra (Utah, USA)

Located in Moab, this race provides breathtaking desert views with relatively easy elevation gain, making it a great choice for a first 50-miler. The course consists of smooth single-track trails with little technical terrain. The cool desert climate and incredible scenery make this a truly enjoyable ultra experience.

What to Look for in a Beginner-Friendly 50-Mile Race

  • Moderate Elevation: Races with less than 5,000 feet of elevation gain are ideal for beginners, allowing for a mix of running and hiking.
  • Generous Cutoff Times: Look for races with at least 12-14 hours to finish. This ensures a relaxed pace and less stress for first-time ultra runners.
  • Good Aid Stations: Frequent aid stations with water, electrolytes, and food can make a huge difference in maintaining energy levels throughout the race.
  • Weather Considerations: Choose races in moderate climates to avoid extreme heat or cold, which can add unnecessary difficulty.
  • Loop or Out-and-Back Courses: These race formats help beginners by providing repeated access to aid stations and familiar terrain.

Final Thoughts

Running your first 50-mile ultra is a major achievement. Pick a race that suits your strengths and training, and enjoy the adventure. Whether you prefer scenic mountain trails, historical races, or smooth forest paths, there’s a perfect race for you. With proper training and a positive mindset, you can successfully complete your first 50-mile ultramarathon and set the stage for even bigger running goals. Happy running!