Runners looking for a fast course, scenic Montana views, and the chance to stand on the podium will find it all at the 41st Annual Big Sky State Games Road Race, taking place Saturday, July 18, 2026, in Billings, Montana.

The Road Race is one of the premier endurance events of the Big Sky State Games, Montana’s Olympic style amateur sports festival that brings thousands of athletes together each summer in 40 different sports. The Games welcome participants of all ages and abilities from across Montana and neighboring states to compete, celebrate sport, and experience the energy of a multi-sport festival.

Participants in the Road Race can choose between three distances:

• 5K
• 10K
• Half Marathon

All three races feature an out-and-back course that winds through the open countryside between Laurel and Billings. Runners will settle into a steady rhythm on paved roads while enjoying views of Montana’s wide-open landscape, including stretches overlooking the Yellowstone River.

The course offers long, smooth sections that are ideal for runners chasing a personal record, while still delivering the peaceful beauty of Montana’s natural scenery. It’s not uncommon for runners to spot deer grazing in nearby hay fields as they move along the course.

Whether you’re racing for a podium finish or simply enjoying the miles, participants will be supported along the route by friendly volunteers at well-stocked aid stations. True to the Olympic-style spirit of the Big Sky State Games, competitors will have the opportunity to earn Gold, Silver, or Bronze medals in their age divisions, adding an extra level of excitement to race day. But the competition is only part of the experience.

The weekend kicks off with the free Big Sky State Games Opening Ceremonies on Friday evening, bringing athletes from more than 40 sports together to celebrate the start of the Games. Before the ceremonies begin, athletes and spectators can enjoy the Athlete Fun Zone, featuring music, food trucks, interactive booths, a climbing wall, axe throwing, face painting, balloon twisting, and more family-friendly activities.

The Opening Ceremonies themselves include the Parade of Athletes, special entertainment, an Olympic guest appearance, the lighting of the ceremonial cauldron and followed by fan-favorite events like the Montana Mile and Montana 100 Meter races. Since its inaugural year in 1986, the Big Sky State Games has grown from 3,376 athletes competing in 12 sports to nearly 8,000 athletes across more than 40 sports, making it one of the largest amateur sporting events in the region.

For runners, the Road Race offers a unique chance to experience that energy while competing on a scenic course with the opportunity to earn a medal and become part of Montana’s largest multi-sport celebration. Whether you’re chasing a new personal best, racing for a medal, or simply enjoying the thrill of competing during a statewide sports festival, the Big Sky State Games Road Race delivers a memorable race experience.

Registration is now open at:
www.bigskygames.org

Join us this July in Billings and run for Gold at the Big Sky State Games!