The Rut Mountain Runs, held at Big Sky Resort in Big Sky, MT, on September 13, 2026, promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Montana's rugged wilderness. This esteemed event, renowned as one of North America's premier mountain running challenges, offers two distinct distances: a demanding 50K and a challenging 11K. Participants can expect breathtaking scenery with stunning mountainous landscapes and jagged peaks, creating a truly immersive experience.

The 50K course is celebrated for its extreme technicality, featuring sections with significant exposure, potential rockfall hazards, and grueling ascents and descents of iconic features like Headwaters Ridge and Lone Peak, reaching altitudes of over 11,000 feet. It combines jeep roads, forested single track, and alpine ridgelines, demanding respect and advanced mountain running skills. Runners consistently describe it as one of the hardest 50K races they've ever experienced, yet incredibly rewarding. For those seeking a formidable introduction to mountain running, the 11K offers a challenging loop on lower and mid-mountain single-track trails, still delivering substantial elevation gain and expansive views.

Beyond the challenging terrain, The Rut is famed for its exceptional organization and vibrant atmosphere. Aid stations are fully stocked with water, Skratch Labs products, and a variety of snacks, all supported by energetic and supportive volunteers. Runners consistently praise the well-marked courses and the overall positive energy of the event. Typical race day conditions in mid-September include highs around 75°F and lows around 38°F, with a low 5% chance of precipitation, though mountain weather can change rapidly. Adding to its unique "Montana flare," The Rut is known for quirky traditions like starting races with an elk bugle and offering free mullets or even tattoos at the finish line, fostering a memorable celebration of mountain running for all participants.