Behind the Rocks Ultra

Moab, nestled at the base of the La Sal Mountains in Utah, presents a unique setting for this ultra-distance event. The trail starts and finishes at Behind the Rocks Trailhead, winding through the Behind the Rocks Wilderness Study Area with its characteristic Navajo Sandstone domes and fins visible from many vantage points along the route. On race morning, runners will face firm but slightly soft trails underfoot, ideal conditions for those prepared to tackle rugged desert terrain.
Behind the Rocks Ultra has been a tradition in Moab since 2017, drawing hundreds of participants each year who come not just for the challenge but also to support local causes and connect with an enthusiastic community. The event raises funds for various scholarships and conservation initiatives important to residents of Utah's red rock country. For those looking to immerse themselves fully into this unique environment, free camping is available at the start/finish line on weekends leading up to the race.
The course itself begins and ends at Behind the Rocks Trailhead in Moab, UT, traversing a mix of double track, sandy washes, technical singletrack trails. Runners will experience elevation changes as they navigate through remote sections of wilderness with limited aid stations along the way. Course maps provide detailed information about key features such as cut-off times and driving directions.
Trail conditions on race day are expected to be firm but slightly soft underfoot, presenting a clear challenge for runners accustomed to more stable surfaces. UV index levels will range moderately at 5.0, requiring participants to protect themselves from sun exposure with appropriate clothing and sunscreen.
The Behind the Rocks Ultra offers four distinct distances: the challenging 50 Miler covering 80.5 kilometers; the equally demanding but slightly shorter 50K distance of exactly 50 kilometers; a less daunting yet still tough 30K race over 30 kilometers; and finally, the more accessible though no less testing 10 Miler spanning 16.1 kilometers.
Registration for Behind the Rocks Ultra can be completed online at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=138061 with fees ranging from $100 to $190 depending on the distance chosen by each participant. Packet pickup is available prior to race day, typically requiring runners to bring their confirmation email and photo ID for verification.
On April 3rd, participants will gather at Behind the Rocks TH in Moab, Utah, ready to embark on one of four ultra-distance courses that test both body and mind against some of America's most breathtaking desert landscapes. The event is a cornerstone tradition within this vibrant community, celebrated each year by runners who appreciate not only the physical challenge but also their role as stewards of these pristine wilderness areas in Utah.