Kodiak Ultra Marathons 2026: Where to Stay, Race Guide & Big Bear Cabins Near the Start

Kodiak takes runners from the heart of Big Bear Lake into high-elevation forests, ridgelines and mountain terrain, with courses featuring some of the valley’s most recognizable places, including Skyline Trail, Sugarloaf Mountain and the Pacific Crest Trail. Depending on the distance, runners can experience thousands of feet of elevation gain while climbing through terrain around 7,000 feet and above.

And the weekend isn’t only for runners.

The start/finish area in The Village at Big Bear Lake becomes a gathering place for athletes, crews, families and spectators, putting restaurants, shops and entertainment within reach while runners are out on the course.

Coming to Big Bear for Kodiak? Stay close to the action and save 15% on participating Destination Big Bear cabins with promo code KODIAK.

Promo terms, participating properties and stay requirements apply.

Why Kodiak Is One of Big Bear’s Biggest Running Events

Kodiak has been part of Big Bear’s trail-running community since 2013 and has grown significantly in recent years.

The race now attracts everyone from experienced ultrarunners attempting 100 miles through the San Bernardino Mountains to runners taking on their first mountain 10K.

Its connection to the UTMB World Series puts Big Bear into a much larger international trail-running community. Kodiak is also a dual qualifier, giving eligible finishers an opportunity to work toward both the UTMB World Series Finals and Western States Endurance Run.

Whether you’re chasing Running Stones, crewing an ultrarunner or simply looking for an excuse to experience a major mountain race, Kodiak weekend offers a very different way to experience Big Bear.

2026 Kodiak Ultra Marathon Race Distances

There isn’t just one Kodiak.

Five distances give runners very different ways to experience Big Bear’s mountain terrain.

Kodiak 100M

Distance: 161.4 KM / approximately 100 miles
Elevation Gain: 4,876 M+
Race Date: October 9, 2026
Running Stones: 8

The ultimate Kodiak challenge takes runners on a massive journey through Big Bear’s mountain landscape. It’s the race for experienced ultrarunners looking for the full Kodiak experience.

Kodiak 100K

Distance: 99 KM
Elevation Gain: 3,120 M+
Race Date: October 10, 2026
Start: The Village of Big Bear Lake
Running Stones: 6

The 100K travels through some of Big Bear’s signature South Shore terrain, including Sugarloaf Mountain and Skyline Trail, before returning runners to The Village. 

Kodiak 50K

Distance: 48.4 KM
Elevation Gain: 1,339 M+
Race Date: October 10, 2026
Start: The Village of Big Bear Lake
Running Stones: 4

The 50K starts and finishes in The Village before climbing Snow Summit and reaching the rolling singletrack of Skyline Trail. Runners encounter granite boulders, forest and elevated views toward Big Bear Lake.

Kodiak 21K

Distance: 21.5 KM
Elevation Gain: 643 M+
Race Date: October 10, 2026
Running Stones: 2

A shorter introduction to Kodiak’s mountain terrain for runners who want a substantial trail challenge without committing to ultra distance.

Kodiak 10K

Distance: 10.5 KM
Elevation Gain: 280 M+
Race Date: October 10, 2026
Start: The Village of Big Bear Lake

The 10K offers a more approachable taste of Big Bear trail running, incorporating North Shore terrain and views of Big Bear Lake.

Where Does the Kodiak Ultra Marathon Start in Big Bear?

For lodging, this is one of the most important things to know.

The Village at Big Bear Lake serves as the central start/finish and festival area for Kodiak weekend, with the official local event listing placing the event around Pine Knot Avenue and Village Drive.

That makes The Village one of the most convenient areas to stay for Kodiak, particularly for runners who have an early start and support crews who want easy access to the event atmosphere.

Instead of choosing a cabin based only on amenities, Kodiak weekend is one time when location deserves to be near the top of your list.

Cabins Within Walking Distance of the Kodiak Start & Finish

Kodiak weekend is already booking quickly. As of early September, only 71 of Destination Big Bear’s 421 properties remain available for race weekend, so runners who want to stay within walking distance of the start and finish should book ASAP.

Johan’s Village Haus

Sleeps: 5 | Bedrooms: 2 | Distance to Start: 6-min walk

This one is in the heart of The Village and includes a hot tub perfect for recovery day from the race.

Breathtaking Views

Sleeps: 14 | Bedrooms: 4 | Distance to Start: 9-min walk

A great option for families or race crews, with room for up to 14 guests and an easy 9-minute walk to the starting line.

Grand Village Lodge

Sleeps: 16 | Bedrooms: 8 | Distance to Start: 9-min walk

Perfect for larger race crews, with a full kitchen, laundry, plenty of beds and a hot tub for post-race recovery.

Lakefront Haven

Sleeps: 8 | Bedrooms: 3 | Distance to Start: 10-min walk

Stay right on the lake while remaining just a 10-minute walk from the starting line. Includes a cozy indoor fireplace for relaxing after race day.

Mountain Masterpiece

Sleeps: 16 | Bedrooms: 7 | Distance to Start: 15-min walk

A spacious option for larger groups who want to stay close to the starting line while having plenty of room to spread out and recharge.

Don’t see the right fit? Explore all available Big Bear cabins for Kodiak weekend and save 15% with code KODIAK.

Save 15% on Your Kodiak Weekend Cabin

Your race entry isn’t the only thing worth planning early.

When you stay with Destination Big Bear for Kodiak weekend, save 15% on participating cabin rentals with promo code KODIAK.

Whether you’re traveling solo with a support crew, splitting a cabin with other runners or bringing the whole family, booking a vacation rental gives your group room to prepare before the race and recover afterward.

Use promo code: KODIAK

Offer subject to availability, participating properties and applicable booking terms.

Why a Cabin Works So Well for Race Weekend

Race weekends have a different rhythm than normal vacations.

You might be eating breakfast before sunrise. Your gear needs somewhere to go. Your crew may be coming and going at different times. And after running through the mountains for hours, sometimes the only itinerary you’re interested in involves food, a shower and somewhere comfortable to collapse.

A cabin gives runners and crews some useful advantages:

• Full kitchen: Prepare your normal pre-race meals instead of changing your routine at the last minute.
• More room for your crew: Keep runners, family, friends and gear together.
• Laundry: Especially useful after a dusty or muddy trail race.
• Private hot tub: Available at many DBB properties for post-race relaxation.
• Location options: Choose a cabin near The Village or elsewhere along your preferred race-weekend route.

Coming to Kodiak as a Support Crew or Spectator?

You don’t need a bib to have a good Kodiak weekend.

The Village becomes the center of the event atmosphere, with food, drinks, entertainment and access to Big Bear’s restaurants and shops nearby.

While your runner is on the course, your crew can explore Big Bear Lake, grab breakfast or lunch in The Village, spend time at the cabin or make their way to approved spectator locations.

Just remember that ultra distances can mean very long race days. Choose accommodations that are comfortable for everyone, not only the runner.

Kodiak Weekend Planning Tips

Turn Kodiak Into a Big Bear Weekend

Kodiak may be the reason you’re coming up the mountain, but it doesn’t have to be the only thing you experience.

October falls during one of Big Bear’s transitional seasons, when cooler temperatures make it an excellent time to explore the valley.

Ready for Kodiak 2026?

You’ve trained for the miles.

Now choose a home base that makes race weekend easier.

Explore Destination Big Bear’s curated selection of cabins near the Kodiak Ultra Marathon start and finish, find the right fit for your runner and support crew, and save 15% on participating properties with promo code KODIAK.

FAQs About Kodiak Ultra Marathons in Big Bear