Pick a loop, and then Find your rhythm
Three base loops, two longer combinations, and endless opportunities to be cheered for at the aid station. The race course closes at 11 a.m. on Monday about 52-hours after the race starts.
1, 2, and 3 miles. Mix it your way.
The 4-mile combination connects the 3-mile and 1-mile loops. The 5-mile combination connects the 3-mile and 2-mile loops.
Each loop is designed to return runners toward central race support. Routes may be used in either direction as permitted by the race, but finish a loop in the direction you started it. Extra short out-and-back segments are used for distances that need them.
Maps and GPX: Below are maps of the base route loops for race day. GPX will be sent a couple weeks out from race day.
A peek at the routes
1-mile lollipop
Mostly maintained gravel path, with some trail and roadway.
3-mile trail
Mostly single-track toward Checkerboard Mesa Overlook, with approximately 100 feet of climbing per mile.
5-mile combination
The longer combination uses the 3-mile and 2-mile routes together.
Keeping track of the miles
This is a more relaxed and chill event, but we still want the mileage to add up so you hit your goals.
50K and shorter
For shorter distances we use color-coded rubber bands to track loops. Marked out-and-back add-ons handle the final distance for 5K, 10K, and half marathon routes.
Marathon and longer
We use color-coded clothespins on a named string at the end of each loop. Race staff periodically convert completed laps into higher total clothespins.
The course is not USATF certified, however we have measured each loop using a wheel. Runners should check in at the aid station after each lap.
Your home base
Aid station & food
Our central aid station at the cabin offers trail snacks, hot food, drinks, ice, and basic first aid. Planned drinks include water, sports drink, soda, coffee, and hot chocolate. When you think about food last year we had: soups, burgers (vegan and meat), pizza, breakfast casseroles, etc. Let us know when you sign up if there’s anything your really hoping for and we will try to make it happen.
Camping & resort
Three camping nights are included with registration. Participants bring their own tent and sleeping gear; lodging upgrades are arranged with the resort. Guest access for crew and spectators are required to pay the resort daily fee which can be paid during resgistration.
Some practical stuff before the fun
Prepare for the desert
The course sits at about 6,500 feet. November can bring sunny afternoons and freezing nights, and sometimes rain or snow. Dress in layers and carry the equipment and hydration you need between passes through the aid station.
Aid-station volunteers have basic first-aid and CPR skills. There are no routine medical examinations planned. Be honest about how you feel, ask for help early, and follow staff safety instructions.
Crews, pacers & spectators
Guests may need to arrange campsite access or resort lodging for bathroom and amenity access. Existing guidelines allow pacers for ultra-distance entrants after 30 miles, with a bib and signed waiver. Food wristbands may be available for nonparticipants or upgraded for those running shorter distances for the entirety of the weekend.
Dogs are allowed on the trails and resort grounds, but are subject to rules and responsible control; they are not allowed in resort cabins.