Big Bear’s Ultra 2026

Take on the challenge at one of the most atmospheric and demanding ultra races in Slovakia! Big Bear’s Ultra is a no-compromise mountain run leading through wild, rugged corners of the Slovak Carpathians (in the area of Malá Fatra, Veľká Fatra and the Low Tatras) 🏃🇸🇰. Runners face brutal ultra distances (including the flagship distance of over 100 km with a huge total elevation gain) as well as 'shorter' accompanying routes – 60 and 40 km. The course is famous for steep, technical climbs, dense forests, treacherous trails, and spectacular views from rocky ridgelines.

After tackling the demanding Carpathian kilometers, the picturesque region of central Slovakia offers brilliant conditions for recovery! Visit the fairy-tale UNESCO-listed village Vlkolínec – a unique open-air museum with perfectly preserved, colorful wooden folk architecture 🏡. Then, warm up tired muscles in thermal waters! The area is full of water parks, such as Bešeňová or Tatralandia, where hot springs bring immediate relief after the run ♨️🌊. Take a gondola to the summit of Chopok in the Low Tatras or Chleb in Malá Fatra to effortlessly admire the monumental panorama of Slovakia’s mountain ranges 🏔️🚡.

After a long day of effort, replenish calories with traditional, hot Bryndza halušky with bacon cracklings, hearty sauerkraut soup, and a crispy potato pancake with cheese. It’s also worth celebrating your running success with a glass of Slovak beer or the iconic, warming Tatratea 🧀🥓