Kiehl’s Badwater Ultramarathon

Kiehl’s, a company known for its cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, herbal products and many other things, hosts an annual marathon that is definitely considered to be tougher than most. It involves a rough 135 miles, starting in Badwater, CA, which is 280 feet below sea level, and ending at Mt. Whitney, CA, 8360 feet above sea level. The marathon begins at the lowest elevation level within the Western Hemisphere and covers three different mountain ranges. This of course means a lot of incline running as well as decline, and the ascent can surely have an effect on those running. The race has been around since 1999 and each year thousands line up to get a shot at the harsh course. Throughout the run marathoners pass through many different locations including Mushroom Rock, Salt Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Devil’s Golf Course. Because the course is so tough, there has never been a 100% completion rate, though it’s not rare to have one within the 90th percentile.