Prepare to be tested and transformed at the Behind the Rocks Ultra, an iconic trail race nestled in the stunning red rock landscapes of Moab, Utah, on March 28, 2026. This Mad Moose Events staple offers a challenge for every ambition, with distances including a 50M, 50K, 30K, and 10M, inviting runners into a world of unparalleled desert solitude. The course navigates Moab's "last hidden gem," the Behind the Rocks Wilderness Study Area, showcasing towering Navajo Sandstone domes and fins, alongside breathtaking views of the snow-capped La Sal mountains. Runners will encounter a diverse and demanding terrain, from smooth doubletrack and sandy washes to technical doubletrack, challenging singletrack, and exhilarating slickrock sections, promising both mental and physical tests.
The Behind the Rocks Ultra is renowned for its remote and rugged nature, particularly the 50-mile course, which features significant elevation gains—6,788 feet for the 50M, 3,832 feet for the 50K, 1,690 feet for the 30K, and 886 feet for the 10M. Expect technical down climbs, rim running, and even some rock scrambling, especially within challenging areas like Amasa Back and Jackson's Ladder on the longer routes. Aid stations are strategically placed, but due to the course's remote sections and long distances between stops, carrying adequate water is essential. Typical race day conditions in late March bring pleasant highs around 69°F and lows around 39°F, with a minimal 3% chance of precipitation, creating ideal weather for tackling the trails.
What truly sets this race apart is the immersive experience and vibrant community atmosphere. Runners consistently praise the well-marked course and the unparalleled scenery that unfolds with every mile. The start and finish line, located about 13 miles south of Moab at the Behind the Rocks Trail, offers free camping at the Mad Moose Base Camp, fostering a unique and supportive communal spirit for the entire weekend. As part of the prestigious Run Moab Series and a component of the "Triple Crown of Moab," this event is a must for any trail runner seeking a challenging adventure in one of Utah's most iconic landscapes.
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