I’ve seen some solid lists of endurance documentaries but no good ones purely on ultra running.
So I created the list below.
Thanks to ultra runners Adam Kimble (who smoked me in the first 5 minutes of a morning run in the Columbia, MO trails at Capital Camp!) and Matt Siebert (Oakland in the house!) for your recommendations.
Note: I deliberately left out Ironman and Triathlon documentaries. I wanted to keep this pure to ultra running — and Ironman/Tris deserve their own “Best of” list.
1) Just. One. Mile.
“Just. One. Mile.” is set at the “Mid-State Mile” race (also known as the “Murder Mile)”. It’s held on private land near Franklin, TN.
Competitors face a brutal 1.1-mile loop with 340 feet of elevation gain, navigating steep climbs and swift descents on an old logging road.
This last-man-standing event (no official finish line) demands runners complete each loop in 20 minutes, eliminating those who can’t keep up.
The last person standing wins.
But it’s not an ultra?
I know, I know, this isn’t technically an ultra marathon since a winner might run less than the 50K distance normally considered an ultra (and still win).
But the winner has had to run way more than that each year since its inception:
• 2020: 96.8 miles (155.8 km)
• 2021: 122.1 miles (196.5 km)
• 2022: 128.0 miles (206.0 km)
• 2023: 133.1 miles (214.2 km)
• 2024: 102.3 miles (164.6 km)
I don’t name the winners above because I don’t want to give away the winner of this documentary!
Director Richard Bulger doesn’t hold back on this doc (released June 27, 2023).
We meet Chadd Wright, the reigning champ and ex-Navy SEAL, carrying the weight of his mentor’s tragic suicide.
Then there’s Greg Armstrong, who unexpectedly shows up to race again, and James Ward, racing while his father is on his deathbed.
Ward’s emotional journey peaks when he sprints a loop to say goodbye to his father over the phone, driven by Chadd’s training tips.
As the race grinds on, runners drop until it’s just Chadd and Luke Bollschweiler.
The competition is raw and real, highlighted by Chadd’s gritty “Dukey Shirt” moment.
Will the super-cocky Chadd stand victorious?
You can find the latest streaming options for this at https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/just-one-mile
I liked this doc so much I dedicated a deeper page to it with more ways to watch it. It’s here:
https://dailydoc.com/just-one-mile/
Thx to the wonderful Chelsey Altomaro for tipping me off to this awesome doc!
2) The Barkley Marathons: The Race That Eats Its Young
“The Barkley Marathons: The Race That Eats Its Young” is like”Free Solo” meets “Survivor”.
Born from a prison escape story, the race pays homage to James Earl Ray’s 1977 escape from Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary.
Despite 55 hours of freedom, Ray covered only 8 miles, prompting racer Lazarus Lake (real name Gary Cantrell) to wonder, “Could I do better?”
In 1986, Laz’s vision became reality with the first Barkley Marathons in Frozen Head State Park, Tennessee, near Brushy Mountain. The course mocks Ray’s escape, twisting it into an agonizing challenge. Key feature? Book pages as checkpoints—miss one and retrace your steps.
Entry is exclusive with only 40 participants yearly. Fees are quirky: $1.60, a license plate, or even a shirt. Laz lights a cigarette to signal the start—no announcements, just smoke. The “Fun Run” is a grueling 60-mile starter.
The race spans 60 hours with unpredictable weather and brutal elevations akin to summiting Everest twice.
With a less than 1% finishing rate, most racers fail. Failed runners take the humbling “Walk of Shame” back to camp, under the watchful eyes of all, accompanied by “Taps” played on a bugle—a haunting, public farewell.
Racer Julian Jamison sums it up: “I think most people would be better off with more pain in their lives.” “Just. One. Mile.” captures this brutal yet inspiring journey, showcasing the ultimate test of endurance and resilience.
Congrats to the doc’s directors Annika Iltis and Timothy James Kane — they really nailed this one.
Watch it for free on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zbl0jhbpiM0
I added 6 other places to watch it and tons more details about this doc here:
https://dailydoc.com/the-barkley-marathons-the-race-that-eats-its-young/
3) Where Dreams Go to Die
Yep, The Barkley Marathons is so epic that another doc on it is ranked #3:
“Where Dreams Go to Die” (2017) is a soul-crushing, inspiring epic that plunges you into the grueling world of The Barkley Marathons.
Directed by Ethan Newberry, aka The Ginger Runner, this film follows Canadian ultra-endurance athlete Gary Robbins as he tackles The Barkley.
Newberry captures every raw moment of Robbins’ two attempts over two years.
We see the agony, the exhaustion, and the heartbreak.
Gary’s pursuit isn’t just about physical endurance; it’s a mental battle against self-doubt and despair.
“Where Dreams Go to Die” shows the sacrifices that come with dedicating your life to such a monumental challenge.
Robbins’ story is filled with highs and crushing lows, but through it all, his relentless spirit shines. This doc is about running — of course — but it’s even more about the human condition.
It’s the fight against our limits. The relentless pursuit of dream. And what it feels like when the odds are stacked against us.
But yeah, it’s also about what many believe is the toughest race on Earth.
Watch it for free on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDZdsqbcGTU
4) Unbreakable: The Western States 100
Thx to two ultra runners for pointing this out: Matt Siebert and Adam Kimble. They both say it’s one of their 2 favorite ultra runnning documentaries.
It’s “Unbreakable: The Western States 100” is a documentary that grabs you by the trail-running shoes and doesn’t let go.
Directed by JB Benna, this 2012 doc covers the legendary Western States Endurance Run.
It’s a 100-mile ultra-marathon from Squaw Valley to Auburn, California.
The doc premiered at the wonderful San Francisco’s Sports Basement (I love shopping there!) with a packed house of 300. Director Benna and featured athletes Hal Koerner, Anton Krupicka, and Geoff Roes all attened.
This race is a relentless beast.
The Picture this: starting at dawn, traversing snowy peaks, enduring blistering heat, and pushing through the dark of night.
Benna focuses on four ultra-running legends—Hal, Geoff, Anton, and Kilian Jornet—each with their eyes on the prize of being “Unbreakable.”
What makes this film shine is its raw, intimate trail footage.
Rickey Gates, with a GoPro, captures the race’s most grueling moments, especially the scorching Cal Street segment.
The documentary also dives deep into the runners’ lives, visiting their homes to document their meticulous prep for the 2010 race. There are also scenes of them reflecting on their lives afterward.
The personal touches are golden: Geoff’s girlfriend, Corle LaForce, singing to their daughter Elle; Anton cooking dinner with his girlfriend Jocelyn Jenks.
These moments make the runners real and relatable.
“Unbreakable” isn’t just about who wins.
It’s about the journey, the friendships, and the sheer human spirit. Benna captures the essence of what it means to be unbreakable, making you want to hit the trails or at least think twice about that second donut.
Watch “Unbreakable” for free on YouTube here:
5) Desert Runners
“Desert Runners” (2013) covers the 4 Deserts Race Series.
The doc follows four main participants—David O’Brien, a 56-year-old Irish marketing director; Ricky Paugh, a 33-year-old former American baseball player; Samantha Gash, a 25-year-old Australian actress; and Tremaine Kent, a 40-year-old English ex-military security specialist—as they attempt the “Grand Slam,” tackling all four races in one year.
The series spans the Atacama, Gobi, Sahara, and Antarctica, pushing these runners to their limits. The documentary captures every gritty detail: scorching heat, freezing cold, and relentless terrain.
Director Jennifer Steinman makes you feel the blistering Atacama sun, the harsh Gobi winds, the oppressive Sahara heat, and the frigid Antarctic chill.
In the Gobi Desert, Ricky Paugh and David O’Brien tackle a grueling 62-mile day, the series’ most challenging stretch.
The film doesn’t shy away from the race’s brutal realities—blisters, dehydration, and mental exhaustion.
Tragically, it also documents the collapse and subsequent death of 31-year-old American runner Nick Kruse during the China leg, highlighting the extreme dangers involved.
Watch it on Amazon Prime Video and some other sites. Check out the latest streaming options here:https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/desert-runners
It looks like you can also watch it for free on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bs-k88cCZb0
6) Running for Good: The Fiona Oakes Documentary
Can you win endurance races on a diet of nothing but plants?
“Running for Good: The Fiona Oakes Documentary” is about a racer who tackles some of the toughest races on Earth like the Marathon des Sables and the North Pole Marathon.
All th while advocating for veganism and animal rights!
Fiona, who lost a kneecap due to surgery, runs her own animal sanctuary with her partner, Martin, waking up at 4 a.m. for training and caring for over 400 animals.
The 2018 film (directed by Keegan Kuhn) captures her setting a Guinness World Record by completing a marathon on every continent.
Kuhn’s cinematography brings to life the extreme conditions Fiona faces—from the scorching heat of the Sahara to the icy winds of Antarctica.
The raw footage reveals her battles with blisters, blood, and sheer exhaustion, yet her spirit remains unbroken.
Fiona’s vegan lifestyle is central to the narrative, proving that one can be incredibly strong on a plant-based diet.
The doc also highlights intimate moments at her sanctuary and her supportive relationship with Martin.
Watch “Running for Good” for free on Hoopla (requires library or university card) and a few other places. Here are the latest streaming options: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/running-for-good
7) Ultra (2017)
“Ultra” (2017) covers the Spartathlon, a punishing 246-kilometer race from Athens to Sparta, Greece.
This ultra race is unique is its historical significance—it retraces the steps of an ancient Athenian messenger who ran this route in 490 BC during the Greco-Persian Wars.
Director Simonyi gives us an inside look at this epic challenge through the eyes of several runners, including himself, Béla Szabó, Judit Táncsics, and Annett Bahlcke.
Each runner’s story is a mix of pain, perseverance, and passion. The goal? To complete the journey within 36 hours, maintaining an average speed of 7 kilometers per hour.
The film captures the grueling reality of the race. The runners battle scorching Greek sun, endless roads, and their own physical limits. Blistered feet, muscle cramps, and sheer exhaustion are constant companions.
Watch “Ultra” for free on YouTube (I selected English sub-titles and it worked for me) at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OxQM3tQIWlA
8) Running on the Sun: The Badwater 135
Thx again to two ultra runners for pointing this out: Matt Seibert and Adam Kimble. They both say it’s one of their 2 favorite ultra runnning documentaries.
We’re talking about the Badwater 135 again.
This time it’s the subject of Mel Stuart’s sweat-drenched documentary “Running on the Sun.”
Many watchers of this doc were inspired to watch it by David Goggins and his book “Can’t Hurt Me”.
Director Stuart’s doc follows a group of ultrarunners as they attempt this feat of human endurance.
We meet the eclectic mix of participants: seasoned ultrarunners (like Marshall Ulrich), a firefighter, a corporate executive, and even a retired Marine.
One of the standout moments in the documentary is the ascent of Towne Pass, a grueling 17-mile climb that rises 5,000 feet.
“Running on the Sun” reaches its climax as the runners approach the finish line at Mount Whitney.
The sense of achievement is overwhelming. Tears, hugs, and exhausted smiles mark the end of an incredible journey.
Watch “Running on the Sun” for free on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dl3laLhbCsw (it’s in English but this vid has German sub-titles). Sorry, but sh!t, it’s free!
9) Run Free: The True Story of Caballo Blanco
“Run Free: The True Story of Caballo Blanco,” directed by Sterling Noren, chronicles the life of Micah True, aka Caballo Blanco.
Known for his deep connection with the Tarahumara Indians of Mexico, True’s journey from a competitive runner to a cultural ambassador is inspiring.
The documentary opens with the stunning Copper Canyons, home to the Tarahumara, who are famed for their long-distance running abilities.
True founded the Copper Canyon Ultra Marathon to showcase the Tarahumara’s running prowess and support their community.
The film details his efforts to organize the race amidst logistical challenges and his determination to bridge the gap between the Tarahumara and the ultrarunning community.
Intimate interviews reveal True’s struggles with loneliness and the physical demands of his lifestyle. Despite these challenges, his dedication to his mission shines through.
The documentary poignantly covers his tragic death in 2012 during a run in New Mexico.
“Run Free” is a tribute to True’s legacy, celebrating running as a way of life and his impact on the Tarahumara. It’s a compelling watch for those inspired by stories of resilience and community.
Here are some options to watch”Run Free”: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/run-free-the-true-story-of-caballo-blanco
10) Lorena
“Lorena, Light-footed Woman” is a brief but impactful 28-minute documentary about Lorena Ramírez..
She’s an ultra runner from Chihuahua, Mexico who runs in a skirt and blouse, paired with huarache sandals made from recycled tire rubber.
Director Juan Carlos Rulfo offers a glimpse into the world of ultramarathon running through the lens of indigenous tradition.
Lorena, 22 at the time of filming, competes in ultramarathons across Mexico and Europe. What sets her apart is her attire: she runs in traditional Rarámuri dress, a colorful skirt and blouse, paired with huarache sandals made from recycled tire rubber.
This striking image of Lorena, her long skirt flowing as she navigates rugged terrain, becomes a powerful visual metaphor for the blend of tradition and modernity in her life.
The film balances scenes of Lorena’s daily life – tending goats and cooking with family – with breathtaking footage of her running through the Sierra Tarahumara.
Rulfo’s camera captures the harsh beauty of the landscape and the fluid grace of Lorena’s movement.
Narrated in Lorena’s native Rarámuri language, the documentary provides insight into her motivations and the cultural significance of running for her people.
While touching lightly on challenges faced by the Rarámuri, including poverty and drug cartels, the film maintains its focus on Lorena’s resilience and athletic prowess.
Watch “Lorena” on Netflix at https://www.netflix.com/title/80244683 (it’s in Spanish with English sub-titles)
11) Running the Sahara
“Running the Sahara” is about three people trying to become the first humans to run coast to coast across the Sahara Desert.
Directed by James Moll and narrated by Matt Damon, chronicles the journey of ultramarathoners Charlie Engle, Ray Zahab, and Kevin Lin.
Covering two marathons a day, their expedition showcases stunning landscapes, scorching heat, freezing nights, and sudden sandstorms.
Engle, Zahab, and Lin confront doubt and exhaustion.
But their camaraderie and determination pull them through.
The support crew’s logistical mastery, from route planning to medical aid, underscores the complexity of their endeavor.
Engle battles personal demons, Zahab seeks adventure, and Lin aims to prove himself.
Their motivations add depth, transforming the run into a profound personal journey. The film also highlights the broader issue of water scarcity in Africa.
Check here for streaming options: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/running-the-sahara
12) The Source
In “The Source,” directors Carrie and Tim Highman dive into the psyche of elite ultrarunner Courtney Dauwalter.
This 2019 documentary is a raw, 39-minute ride into what fuels this candy-loving, beer-drinking athlete.
Courtney crushes 200+ mile races, often beating both men and women.
Her Moab 240 finish—ten hours ahead of second place—is legendary.
The film follows her 2018 Tahoe 200 attempt, aiming to finish in under 48 hours.
Courtney’s blend of determination and humility is jaw-dropping.
A favorite scene: At one point, after 103 miles, she cheerfully greets her crew with a chipper “morninnnn.”
This doc captures Courtney’s spirit, showing us all what a true beast of a runner she is.
Watch “The Source” by clicking the video embed above.
13) Run to the Source
Here’s the trailer:
“Run to the Source,” follows Martin Johnson’s arduous journey to run the 296 km Thames Path from Woolwich to the river’s source.
This documentary dives into the connection between Black British history and the River Thames.
Martin embarks on his run on May 25th, marking the first anniversary of George Floyd’s death.
He reflects on the underrepresentation of Black people in outdoor sports, recalling his early days as the only Black runner on the starting line. Through treacherous conditions, including wet grass and potential fatigue, Martin perseveres with remarkable determination.
The 2002 Patagonia film (directed by Matt Kay), captures the support from his family and the Black Trail Runners community, who provide logistical and moral support.
Martin navigates historic sites across London and rural England, symbolizing a transition from urban life to nature.
Despite exhaustion, he maintains his resolve, aiming to complete the run in under 40 hours.
Watch the full documentary here:
14) Spine
“Spine” dives headfirst into the Montane Spine Race, which has earned the rep as Britain’s most brutal race.
This flick isn’t just a highlight reel of epic fails and wins; it’s a deep dive into the race’s ten-year evolution from a mad idea to a grueling reality.
Dreamed up by two polar explorers who wanted a UK race with the icy feel of their beloved cold-weather expeditions, the Spine Race kicked off with barely a dozen runners.
Fast forward to today, and it now sees over 500 athletes pushing their limits twice a year.
Directed by Eleanor Green, this 2022 documentary features interviews with the race’s founders, longtime crew members, and ultra-legends like course record holder Jasmin Paris, multiple winner Eoin Keith, Damian Hall, Eugenie Rosello Sole, and Pavel Paloncy.
Spine” captures the rugged beauty of the Pennine Way and the grit required to conquer it.
Watch it for free on Hoopla (with library/university card). Here are the latest streaming optionsat https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/spine
15) Ultramarathon Man: 50 Marathons, 50 States, 50 Days
Here’s the trailer:
“Ultramarathon Man: 50 Marathons, 50 States, 50 Days,” follows Dean Karnazes running 50 marathons in 50 consecutive days across the U.S.
Yep, 50 in 50!
Personal note: I saw Dean doing running through San Francisco (he lived in nearby Marin at the time) multiple times when I lived there. I guess he would start in Marin (where he lived), run across the Golden Gate Bridge, and just run right through San Francisco to god knows where (one time I saw him running south (towards Half Moon Bay!)).
Back to the doc.
Dean tackles America’s youth obesity crisis. His 30th birthday sparks his passion for running.
Key moments include his son Nicholas running the last nine miles in Green Bay to celebrate his ninth birthday.
He meets diverse participants like a one-legged runner in Nebraska and a man who lost 68 pounds training to join him.
Despite challenges like a fall in Atlanta, Dean’s determination is unshaken.
The doc ,captures logistical hurdles and inspiring stories, including cancer survivors and those battling obesity.
The journey ends with the New York City Marathon, where Dean reflects on the spiritual nature of his quest. This documentary is a testament to human spirit and resilience.
“Ultramarathon Man” is J.B. Benna’s second doc on this list! He also directed “Unbreakable” above!
Watch the full “Ultramarathon Man” documentary for free on YouTube here:
16) The Winner
I don’t see this doc mentioned much.
Maybe because the runner is from Poland. Maybe because it’s just 22 minutes.
But damn it’s good.
Directed by Jakub Górajek, this 22-minute film from 2012 spotlights Dariusz “Darek” Strychalski—a man with a backstory as jaw-dropping as the race itself.
Badwater 135 isn’t just tough; it’s legendary. Fewer have finished this grueling 135-mile trek than have summited Everest. Held in the blistering summer heat, where temps hit 130 degrees, less than half of the elite invitees cross the finish line.
Darek, born in 1975 in Dobre Miasto, Poland, was hit by a car at eight, left in a coma for three months, and had three craniotomies. His right side is partially paralyzed, and he started running in 2020 to feel alive.
He says, “I feel great when I practice. If I have to make a day off or a break I feel bad… I get upset and mad at everything.”
This doc is about a guy defying all odds.
Darek has no coach and faces the toughest race of his life.
His family—mom, dad, and brother are all interviewed. But few others. You get the feeling that Darek is a bit alone on this journey (outside his fam)(.
The Badwater race is a beast—135 miles, five marathons back-to-back, in just two days, through searing heat and punishing hills.
From a small Polish town to the inferno of Death Valley, Darek’s journey is pure inspiration. It’s a heart-pounding, sweat-soaked testament to human resilience.
For 22 minutes, “The Winner” grabs you and doesn’t let go.
Darek Strychalski doesn’t just run—he conquers, proving that even in the hottest, hardest places, the human spirit is unbreakable.
You can watch “The Winner” by clicking the video embed above or going here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GSPw4tJqkmk
17) Desert Ultra | An Ultra Running Documentary
Welcome to the Desert Ultramarathon, where Beyond the Ultimate Race Series decides that running through Namibia’s Namib desert isn’t quite hellish enough without adding a film crew to the mix.
For the first time, they’ve let cameras roll (thanks, Ryan Lovejoy and team) on this 250km sufferfest.
Ultra runner Adam Kimble is the Race Director and host.
Picture this: Five days, no rest, and temperatures that make your oven look like an ice box. We’re talking 50°C (120°F), folks. That’s not a typo – that’s just Tuesday in the Namib.
Our intrepid runners kick things off with the Spitskoppe Saddle – 51km of “Hey, this isn’t so bad!” before reality sets in.
Day two? A casual stroll towards Brandberg Mountain, where sandy sections and rocky terrain separate the wheat from the chaff (and the sane from the slightly unhinged).
But wait, there’s more! The third stage, aptly named the White Lady Marathon, is where dreams go to die and hallucinations come to play.
Runners describe it as “running through an oven,” which begs the question: Who’s been running through ovens?
The grand finale? A 90km stretch that starts in darkness, because apparently, running 90km in daylight just isn’t challenging enough.
You get a lot of bang for the buck on this 30-min doc that is among the best for cinematography and production value of any doc on this list.
You can watch “Desert Ultra” for free on YouTube by clicking the video embed above or going here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6CtZvUeHHE
Thanks for reading!
-Rob Kelly, Chief Maniac, Daily Doc