Run the Red Desert

Run the Red, an annual celebration of Wyoming’s breathtaking Red Desert, invites runners and their families to explore one of North America's last undeveloped high desert steppe ecosystems. Organized by the Lander Running Club in partnership with The Wyoming Wilderness Association, this unique ultra-marathon is designed to honor both nature and history.
The event takes place at South Pass City, a historic gold mining town that serves as a gateway to some of Wyoming’s most stunning landscapes. Runners will start their journey from Whitehorse Creek Overlook, located near the boundary of the dramatic scenery in the Whitehorse Creek Wilderness Study Area. The race courses are looped and designed to showcase the northern portion of Wyoming's Red Desert with its iconic Continental Peak and Oregon Buttes.
The 50k course begins at the overlook and follows a point-to-point route that leads runners through varied terrain, including canyons, valleys, and historic mining sites. Runners will traverse across the canyon rim before ascending to Pacific Butte where they’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Wind River Mountains and vast expanses of desert. After descending into a valley and crossing the Sweetwater River, participants will face the gentle climb towards Fish Creek granite domes and then drop down into Willow Creek Drainage for the final leg back to South Pass City.
The 30k course also starts at Whitehorse Creek Overlook but takes runners on a shorter point-to-point route. This race offers fewer miles of rugged terrain yet still includes crossing the Sweetwater River, navigating Fish Creek granite domes, and passing through historic mining sites en route to South Pass City.
Both races feature aid stations where participants can restock supplies or grab refreshments along the way. The event is not just a physical challenge but also an opportunity for runners to immerse themselves in Wyoming’s rich history and natural beauty.
Registration opens on January 1st, with deadlines closing September 22nd. Those who previously registered and canceled their spots may use rollover credits towards this year's race by re-registering before capacity is reached. For more information or assistance with registration issues, visit UltraSignup’s Runner Support Page: https://help.ultrasignup.com/docs-category/runner-assistance/
South Pass City itself offers a unique blend of history and recreation, making it an ideal destination for runners looking to experience both the race and the surrounding area. The town is home to several historic exhibits maintained by Wyoming State Park services, providing visitors with insight into the region’s past.
For those planning their visit, the nearest gas station can be found either 35 miles north in Lander or 45 miles south in Farson. For more details about South Pass City and its attractions, please visit: https://www.southpasscity.org/
Run the Red is a testament to Wyoming’s commitment to preserving wild spaces for future generations while celebrating the heritage of this remarkable landscape.