Question 1

How does cold overnight racing change my calorie needs at Bear 100?

Accepted Answer

Cold running burns significantly more calories for the same effort — the body burns glycogen to maintain core temperature. Increase your target by 50–75 cal/hr during cold night sections. Hot soup and warm drinks at every night aid station.

Question 2

What should I carry through the Bear 100 night sections?

Accepted Answer

Extra calories (300+), a hot hands warmer for fingers (cold hands can't open gel wrappers), emergency bivy, and a rescue food that doesn't freeze — energy chews stay pliable in cold better than hard gels.

Question 3

How do I fuel on the steep climbing sections?

Accepted Answer

Hike the steep grades and eat while hiking. You won't run the major climbs — use those hiking sections for eating and hydrating. Gels work well here; save solid food for aid stations when you can sit.

Question 4

What's the Bear 100 fuel strategy for the second half?

Accepted Answer

By mile 50, GI fatigue is standard. Switch to broth, potatoes, and savory food at Logan River (mile 48). The final 50 miles are where nutrition quality determines who finishes with dignity vs who suffers into Fish Haven.

Question 5

Tips for the Cache Valley sections?

Accepted Answer

Lower elevation and rolling terrain in the valley sections — take advantage of the easier terrain to eat real food. These sections are your nutrition recovery opportunity before the next big climb.

Bear 100 Mile Endurance Run

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Nutrition answers for Bear 100 Mile Endurance Run.

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