The Salt Flats Endurance Runs returns to Wendover, Utah on April 30th through May 1st, offering runners a unique challenge across the Bonneville Salt Flats Speedway. This event caters to both seasoned ultramarathon enthusiasts and beginners looking for their first taste of ultra running with distances ranging from a 5K fun run to an epic 160.9-kilometer (100-mile) course, all starting at the same time on Friday morning at 7AM.
Race day in Wendover is marked by early morning light over the expansive Salt Flats, where runners will experience a blend of firm salt and muddy terrain interspersed with rolling hills and steep climbs. The atmosphere is one of camaraderie among participants as they tackle distances that range from ten hours to two full days, depending on their choice of race distance.
Since its inception in 2017, the Salt Flats Endurance Runs has become a significant event for ultrarunners seeking both personal challenges and community support. The races have grown in popularity each year, attracting runners not just from Utah but across the United States and beyond. All proceeds from the race go towards supporting local education initiatives and health programs within Wendover.
The courses are meticulously planned to traverse parts of the Salt Flats where land-speed records are set during Speedweek events, offering a mix of flat salt crust and more challenging mud flats along with mountainous terrain that rises unexpectedly like islands. The 50K runners will run out to an aid station at 15.5 miles before turning back for their return trip, while the longer distances include additional climbs and even cross into Nevada.
Weather conditions in April around Wendover are typically mild but can vary due to BLM regulations that dictate whether the race takes place on the salt flats or a prepared alternate route if the surface is too wet. Runners should expect temperatures ranging from cool early mornings to warmer afternoons, with average humidity levels and UV index of 5 (moderate).
100 Miler
160.9K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $220.00
100K
100K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $160.00
50 Miler
80.5K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $140.00
50K
50K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $100.00
10K
10K • Start: 12:00:00 • Fee: $50.00
5K
5K • Start: 12:00:00 • Fee: $30.00
The Salt Flats Endurance Runs offers runners a choice between four ultra-distance races: a 160.9-kilometer (100-mile) race for $220.00; a 100K course at $160.00; an 80.5-kilometer (50-mile) distance costing $140.00; and a shorter but still formidable 50K run priced at $100.00. In addition to these, the event includes a more accessible option with a 10K ($50.00) and a fun-filled 5K route for just $30.00.
100 Miler
160.9K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $220.00
100K
100K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $160.00
50 Miler
80.5K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $140.00
50K
50K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $100.00
10K
10K • Start: 12:00:00 • Fee: $50.00
5K
5K • Start: 12:00:00 • Fee: $30.00
Registration can be completed online through [https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=139268](https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=139268). Fees vary based on the distance chosen, with bib pickup available from 10:30 to 11:30 AM Saturday at a designated location. All participants in both the ultra and shorter races will receive tech shirts.
Bib numbers can be picked up during specified times leading up to race day; runners should bring their confirmation email or printed receipt for verification purposes when collecting their bibs. The start line is located at Bonneville Salt Flats International Speedway, where all distances begin on Friday morning at 7AM sharp. Age requirements vary but are generally open to anyone who can complete the distance safely.
The Salt Flats Endurance Runs in Wendover, Utah, from April 30th through May 1st offers a rare and immersive experience for runners of all levels, with courses that blend challenging terrain and historical significance within one of America's most distinctive landscapes.