Backbone Trail Ultra

Embark on an epic 68-mile journey across the Backbone Trail Ultra, a challenging point-to-point race set for January 16, 2027, through the stunning Santa Monica Mountains of California. This singular official ultra-running event covers the entire majestic Backbone Trail, renowned for its diverse terrain and breathtaking vistas. Runners will navigate a course featuring a mix of well-maintained single-track paths and dirt fire roads, with nearly 13,600 to 15,000 feet of elevation gain that includes numerous "nasty climbs" and technical descents with switchbacks. Starting at Will Rogers State Park in Pacific Palisades, the route unfolds with panoramic Pacific Ocean views, shaded canyons, ancient fossil formations, and sweeping inland perspectives, culminating in a spectacular, gravity-assisted descent down the Ray Miller Trail to the finish at Point Mugu State Park.

The Backbone Trail Ultra promises both a physical test and an unforgettable experience, described by runners as "hard" and "brutal" but "awesome from start to finish." Expect generous support along the way with eight well-stocked aid stations offering standard ultra fare and even "less conventional hot fixins" in later miles, though runners are advised to carry ample provisions between these crucial stops. Typical race day conditions in mid-January offer pleasant highs around 71F and lows near 44F, with only a 10% chance of precipitation, providing an ideal climate for tackling this formidable ridgeline adventure. Participation is capped at 200, with solo entrants requiring prior completion of a 50-mile trail run, ensuring a field of prepared and passionate ultrarunners ready for the challenge.