New for Montana

photo credit Scott Rokis

Endurance running is about more than personal achievement. It's about bringing people together around something simple and profound: putting one foot in front of the other for a really long time. And when you do that in Montana's mountains, something remarkable happens—communities strengthen, trails get protected, and the people who built this place get honored.

That's why we created the Montana Endurance Trail Foundation. Our inaugural Copper Kings 100 in June 2025 brought 105 runners from across the country to Butte, filling hotels, supporting local restaurants, and showcasing what makes this place special. But we wanted to do more than host an event. We wanted to give back to the trails we use by partnering with the Continental Divide Trail Coalition, support Butte landmarks like Our Lady of the Rockies, and help organizations like the Mile High Nordic Ski Education Foundation expand access to the outdoors.

For me, this is deeply personal. Both my parents were born and raised in Butte. My dad’s dad worked in the mines, and my mom’s dad served as county commissioner, working tirelessly to improve and beautify this community. The Copper Kings 100 began as a route I designed to honor that connection—a way to run through my family's history. It evolved into something bigger: a permitted race that now draws hundreds of visitors to Butte each year, supporting the community my family helped build.

Support our Mission

Montana Endurance Trail Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization (EIN: 39-4225437). All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Whether you're a runner who's found meaning in endurance sports, a Butte local who wants to support your community, or a business looking to invest in Montana's outdoor recreation economy, your contribution helps us build something that lasts. Visit our donation page or email hello@mtetf.org to learn more about supporting our work.

-Wes Plate
Founder and Executive Director