One of the most common questions new ultra distance runners ask is, "How long does it take to run an ultramarathon?"

The answer, as you might expect, varies greatly depending on the distance of the race, the terrain, the conditions on the day, plus each runner's experience and fitness level.

In this article, we'll explore different ultramarathon distances, factors that affect how long a race will take, average finishing times for common distances, and tips for improving your overall time. Additionally, we'll dive into the importance of cutoff times and why DNF rates (Did Not Finish) are a reality many ultrarunners face.

What You'll Learn in This Article:

• The differences between various ultramarathon distances like 50K, 100K, and 100 miles.
• How factors like elevation gain, terrain, and weather conditions influence your finishing time.
• Average finish times for different ultramarathon distances.
• What cutoff times are, why they exist, and how they affect your race strategy.
• Tips on how to train and prepare for your next ultra to improve your overall time and avoid the dreaded "did not finish" result.

If you want a training plan that will take care of all of the important details to get you ready to accomplish this incredible feat, check out the MOTTIV training app.

What is an Ultramarathon?

An ultramarathon is any race that exceeds the standard marathon distance of 26.2 miles (42.2 kilometers). Unlike marathons, which are run on roads, most ultramarathons take place on trails, often with rugged terrain and significant elevation gain.

The most common ultra distances are 50K, 100K, and 100 miles, but races can be as short as 30 miles or as long as 200+ miles.

Ultra Running Distances Explained: 50K, 100K, and 100 Mile Races

• 50K (31 miles): This is the shortest standard ultramarathon distance and is often considered a natural progression for marathon runners looking to take on longer challenges. A 50K race can take anywhere from 4 to 10 hours to complete, depending on the terrain and the runner's pace.
• 100K (62 miles): The 100K is a common next step after a 50K and will take many runners 10 to 18 hours or more to finish. These races often require ultra runners to continue racing through the night, adding an additional mental challenge.
• 100 miles: The iconic 100-mile ultra is a grueling endurance challenge that can take anywhere from 20 to 35 hours of running and walking to complete, with cutoff times typically ranging from 24 to 36 hours. These races often feature significant elevation gain and tough, technical trails, pushing runners to their limits.

Factors That Influence How Long It Takes to Complete an Ultra

The time it takes to finish an ultramarathon depends on more than just distance. Several factors come into play that can make an ultra race either faster or significantly slower.

Ultramarathon Running Coach Cody Moore says:

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"There are people that can run 50K ultra marathons in under 4 hours, no problem. And there's people who might be out there for 8, 10, 12 hours on that same race. So, it depends a lot on how challenging the terrain is, what your level of fitness is, and the distance that you're covering."

Elevation Gain, Terrain, and Technicality of the Trail

Because most ultramarathon races are completed on trails, every race will present unique challenges based on the environment, all of which will affect finishing times.

• Elevation gain is one of the biggest factors influencing your race time. Steep climbs, rolling hills, and fast downhills can drastically slow down even the most experienced runners. Races with large elevation changes, or mountainous races, often have much slower finishing times as a whole.
• Terrain: Rocky or root-filled trails, river crossings, and even loose gravel can slow runners considerably, while a course with rather smooth footing may result in quicker paces and finish times.
• Technicality: Races with tricky footing, narrow paths, or precarious drop-offs may require you to slow down or even stop running, further lengthening your overall race time. These kinds of trails require more focus, slower paces, and careful navigation, making it more challenging to maintain a steady pace.

Runner Experience and Fitness Level

Not surprisingly, ultramarathon finishing times are also related to a runner's experience and fitness.

An experienced ultrarunner with many races under their belt will likely finish faster than a beginner, even if both are of similar fitness. This is because seasoned runners are more familiar with pacing themselves over long distances, fueling their bodies properly, and managing their energy levels (both physically and mentally) throughout the race.

On the other hand, new ultrarunners often face a learning curve in managing long distances, nutrition, and mental fatigue. Some may struggle with these aspects, often starting too fast and burning out later in the race. They may also need more time to become adept at managing tricky terrain or steep hills.

Conditions and Weather

Weather plays a significant role in ultramarathon times. Runners can encounter rain, snow, wind, or extreme heat, which can all make the race much harder and slower.

• Heat: High temperatures can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion, forcing runners to slow down to manage their body temperature.
• Cold: Races that take place in cold conditions may require extra layers and more careful pacing to avoid hypothermia.
• Rain and Mud: Wet trails can become slippery and treacherous, making it harder to maintain your footing and speed.
• Wind: Strong winds, especially on exposed trails or ridgelines, can slow down progress significantly.

Average Finish Times for Different Ultramarathon Distances

Depending on the ultra race distance and the factors mentioned above, average finishing times can vary dramatically. Here's a look at the typical completion times for popular ultra distances.

How Long Does It Take to Run a 50K Ultra Marathon?

For most runners, a 50K ultramarathon is the next logical step after completing a marathon. Given the additional mileage and often more challenging terrain, the average time to finish a 50K is longer than that of a marathon.

Assuming a trail race with moderate difficulty, these are the average times it may take a racer to reach the finish line of a 50k:

• Beginner runners: 6 to 8 hours
• Intermediate runners: 5 to 6 hours
• Experienced runners: 4 to 5 hours

What's the Average Time for a 100 Mile Ultra?

The average time to cover 100 miles varies depending on several factors, including the race terrain, elevation profile, and the experience of the runner.

Ultramarathon Running Coach Cody Moore gives this insight:
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"For the 100-mile type races, the finishing time isvery widely. So we see for The Ultra Trail de Mount Blanc, the winning men are coming in just under 20 hours. But there are plenty of people who are on the course for 40 to 48 hours, two full days out there. And then the same with Leadville, where the winning times might be under 16 hours for the men. But other people are out there for 36-plus hours. So they can be out there for 50% longer or more at the back end of the race compared to the front end of the race."

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These are typical finisher times for trail 100 milers:

• Beginner runners: 30 to 36 hours
• Intermediate runners: 24 to 30 hours
• Experienced runners: 20 to 24 hours

Cutoff Times and DNF Rates in Ultramarathons

Many ultramarathons have cutoff times that runners must meet to remain in the race. Knowing the cutoff times for your ultramarathon is a critical part of planning for a successful day.

Understanding Cutoff Times in Ultra Races

Cutoff times refer to the time limits set at various points along the race course. Runners who fail to meet these times are not allowed to keep going and are marked with a DNF ("Did Not Finish"). Cutoff times are in place for several reasons:

• Safety: Race organizers need to ensure runners are safe and able to complete the race within a reasonable amount of time.
• Logistics: Volunteers, aid stations, and medical personnel are typically only available for a limited time, making cutoff times necessary for proper race management.

While every race is different, cutoff times for 50ks tend to be around 9 to 10 hours, while 100 milers are likely to be around 30 to 36 hours, with intermediate cutoff points being based on those times.

Why Some Races Have More Generous Cutoff Times

Some ultraraces—particularly those with extremely challenging terrain or long distances—may have more generous cutoff times. These races understand the additional physical and mental demands placed on runners and adjust their cutoff times accordingly to accommodate the challenge.

For example, the Hardrock Hundred Mile Endurance Run in Silverton, Colorado, has a 48-hour cutoff. This particular race has very rugged terrain, lots of elevation gain, and is run at high altitudes. Race organizers understand that the race might take even the most experienced and elite runners much longer than a normal 100 miler and have set a generous cutoff time as a result.

DNF Rates: What They Mean and Why They Matter

DNF rates refer to the percentage of runners who do not finish the race. Many factors can lead to a DNF, including injury, exhaustion, dehydration, or failure to meet a cutoff time. High DNF rates can indicate a particularly challenging course or harsh weather conditions.

For example, the Barkley Marathons, one of the most notoriously difficult ultramarathons in the world, has an exceptionally high DNF rate, with fewer than 20 runners completing the full course in its entire history.

On the other hand, Arizona's Javelina Jundred race is known to have relatively lower DNF rates due to its flatter, non-technical terrain and less extreme weather conditions.

If you want to have a sense of the typical DNF rate for a race you're interested in, review a few years' worth of race results.

If you'd like to avoid a DNF, follow these tips:

• Pace yourself: Many runners, especially beginners, make the mistake of starting too fast. Focus on maintaining a sustainable pace throughout the race. Walk sections that are particularly technical or challenging in order to save your energy and avoid injury.
• Stay hydrated and fueled: Make sure to eat and drink regularly to avoid hitting the wall.
• Train on similar terrain: If your race features steep climbs or technical trails, try to train on similar terrain to prepare your body.

Tips for Improving Your Finish Time in an Ultramarathon

While many factors are out of your control on race day, there are ways you can improve your overall time by focusing on effective training and race strategies.

Effective Training Plans and Strategies for Ultrarunners

Training for an ultramarathon requires a specific focus on endurance, strength, and mental toughness. Here are some key strategies to help you prepare:

• Increase mileage gradually: Avoid injury by increasing your weekly mileage by no more than 10% at a time.
• Long runs: Incorporate long training runs to build endurance and simulate race day conditions.
• Trail running: Hit the trails to work on technical skills and to practice on terrain similar to what you'll face on race day. If you have a chance to get on the actual race course before the big day, take advantage of it.
• Hill training: If your race features a lot of elevation, make sure to include plenty of hill work in your training.

For more information on the best ways to train for ultra running, refer to our article: "Ultramarathon Training: What Every Runner Needs to Know."

Managing Your Pace During a Long Distance Race

Pacing is crucial for success in an ultramarathon. Going out too fast can lead to burnout and a DNF. Instead, aim to maintain a steady, sustainable pace throughout the entire race, saving energy for the final miles.

Here are a few ways to effectively manage your pacing, whether you plan to run 100 miles or the shorter 50-kilometer distance:

• Run-walk strategy: Many ultrarunners employ a run-walk method to manage their energy, lessen the risk of injury, and keep from burning out too quickly. For tips on when and how to incorporate walking in your ultra, read the article ****LINK **** "Do You Run the Whole Time in an Ultramarathon?"
• Slow down on climbs: Walk the steep climbs to conserve energy and make up time on the flat or downhill terrain.
• Enlist pacers: Many ultramarathon pacers allow participants to run with pacers for some or all of the race. Before the race, talk to your pacers about expectations and encourage them to help you maintain a sustainable pace from the beginning.

In addition to helping you to avoid a DNF, even pacing can help to improve your race result. A 2020 study of racers in the famous UTMB (Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc) race between 2008 and 2019 found that even pacing throughout the race consistently led to faster finishing times.

Nutrition, Hydration, and Rest: Prepare to Go the Distance

Proper nutrition and hydration are critical during an ultramarathon. The longer the race, the more important it becomes to eat and drink regularly to keep your energy levels stable.

• Nutrition: Practice fueling during your training runs to determine which foods work best for you. Some runners prefer gels, while others opt for solid foods.
• Hydration: Stay on top of your hydration needs, especially in hot or dry conditions. Consider using electrolyte drinks or tablets to maintain a balance.
• Rest: In longer races, taking short rest breaks at aid stations can help you recover and refocus for the next section.

For more on nutrition in ultramarathon racing and training, check out this article: "What to Eat During an Ultramarathon."

Wrap-Up: How Long Will Your Ultramarathon Race Take?

The time it takes to run an ultramarathon depends on many factors, including the race distance, terrain, elevation gain, weather conditions, and your experience level. By understanding these variables and preparing effectively, you can set realistic goals and make the most of your ultrarunning experience.

Here are a few key takeaways from this article:

• Distance and terrain are major factors in how long it takes to finish an ultramarathon.
• Elevation gain and technical trails can significantly increase your finishing time.
• Weather conditions can impact performance, so be prepared for anything.
• Training, pacing, and nutrition are key to improving your time and avoiding a DNF.

If you've been thinking about tackling an ultramarathon, now is the perfect time to dive in! With the right preparation and mindset, you can take on the challenge of longer distances, embrace the incredible community, and experience the sense of accomplishment that comes with crossing that finish line.

As we mentioned earlier in the article, you can give the MOTTIV training app a try for free to get a look at a solid ultra marathon training plan that is personalized to you and your goals!

_{Article fact checked by Ultramarathon Running Coach Cody Moore.}