Bear Trap Trail Races

Nestled within Tooele County’s breathtaking Settlement Canyon lies the 9th Annual Bear Trap Trail Races, an exhilarating journey through some of Utah's most stunning and rugged terrain. Founded by Mormon pioneers in late 1849, this historic canyon offers runners a unique blend of forested singletrack trails, steep desert ridgelines, rolling foothills, and scenic dirt roads that wind their way to breathtaking vistas.
The race features three distinct loops, each designed to challenge participants with varying terrain and elevation changes. Participants will navigate through the Ridge Trail, Bottom/Muddy Trail, Left Hand Fork Trail, Dark Trail, Old Kennecott Road, Bench Trail, Skyline Ridge Trail, and ATV trails that weave around Settlement Canyon Reservoir.
Loop A spans approximately 6.2 miles, offering runners a mix of singletrack (87%) with some double-track and dirt roads for variety. Loop B extends to about 8.6 miles, providing more technical terrain with significant elevation gain over rougher surfaces including singletrack, double-track, and dirt road sections.
The final loop, C, measures around 8.2 miles and is primarily composed of double-track trails (67%) alongside some dirt roads for a smoother ride while still maintaining the challenge. Each loop returns to the Start/Finish Area which doubles as an aid station, ensuring runners have access to essential supplies throughout their journey.
For those seeking the ultimate adventure, the marathon course combines all three loops plus an additional out-and-back trek up Tooele Peak at 9,600 feet for a total distance of approximately 26.5 miles and over 8,000 feet in elevation gain. The 23k race covers Loops A & B, while the shorter but equally demanding 10k course is Loop A alone.
The event takes place amidst the Oquirrh Mountains’ scenic vistas where runners can expect to encounter a mix of wooded singletrack trails and exposed desert landscapes. This year’s courses have been carefully crafted with an emphasis on both challenging terrain and picturesque scenery, ensuring that every step along the way offers something new and exciting for trail enthusiasts.
Aid stations are strategically placed at key points throughout each loop, providing runners with hydration and necessary supplies to help them complete their chosen distance successfully. The race environment is kept low-key yet competitive; participants can look forward to a community atmosphere where camaraderie thrives alongside fierce competition.
Top finishers in the marathon, 23k, and 10k races will receive modest awards for both men’s and women’s divisions, adding an extra layer of excitement as runners strive for podium recognition.
The Bear Trap Trail Races promises to be a memorable experience for trail running enthusiasts who appreciate the beauty and solitude that natural landscapes offer beyond traditional paved roads.
For more information or to register, visit www.tooeletrailracing.com.
This event is sanctioned by USATF, ensuring adherence to high standards of organization and race management.