Race the Rocks – 50K Mountain Challenge
Discover the rugged beauty of City of Rocks National Reserve and Castle Rocks State Park, two of the most iconic climbing destinations in the U.S. as you take on the Race the Rocks 50K, you’ll be surrounded by towering granite spires, sweeping meadows, golden aspen groves, and endless mountain views. This is a mountain ultra that blends wild scenery with a true backcountry challenge.
The course features 94% single-track, 2% dirt road, and 4% fire road, winding through remote terrain with limited, but fully supported, aid stations spaced roughly every 8 miles. Along the way, you’ll tackle the historic Log Run, a 1,800-foot climb over just 1.5 miles, once used by pioneers to haul logs for cabin construction. It’s steep, relentless, and without a single switchback.
About 8 miles into the race, you’ll summit the high point of the course Graham Peak. By the time you reach the top, you’ll have climbed nearly 3,000 feet of the 6,200 of the race. Take a moment to catch your breath and take in the panoramic views; the sweeping vistas are worth every step.
After descending Graham Peak, you’ll be rewarded with smooth, flowing singletrack. But don’t get too comfortable, there are still two distinct climbs ahead, with a series of rolling hills in between. While the major ascents may be behind you, the technical nature of the trail remains. It will take grit, and strong legs, to reach the finish
Race the Rocks is a charity event dedicated to giving back to the Almo community. Every registration, every mile, and every runner helps fund local initiatives that make a lasting impact. Whether you’re here for the challenge or the cause, your participation directly supports the people and places that make Almo special.
Race Date/Start/Cutoff
- Saturday, September 20th
- 7:00 Race Start
- 6:00 pm Cufoff, 11 hours.
Key Features:
- Scenic Terrain: Explore two renowned parks with panoramic views and rugged trails.
- Challenging Climb: Tackle the historic Log Run, a steep ascent steeped in pioneer history.
- Remote Adventure: Limited but fully serviced aid stations offer support for this remote mountain race.
Race for a Cause:
This charity event proudly supports the local community, giving back to the area that makes this race so special.
Registration Fee:
$125
Includes:
- Race Entry
- Park Access
- UltrAspire Daily Carry Bag
- Finish Line Meal Voucher
Lodging & Camping:
- Reserve lodging directly through the state park.
- Camping available at open campgrounds.
- 50 campsites offered at just $10 per site.
Race Day Extras:
- Shirts available for purchase to commemorate your race.
- Enjoy post-race festivities with live music, swing dancing, craft fair, and a youth championship rodeo!
Post-Race Entertainment:
- 3:00–7:00 PM: Live music by Roughstock, a country-western band.
- 8:00 PM: Championship rodeo hosted by Scruffy Buffalo.
Experience the thrill, challenge, and beauty of Race the Rocks—where adventure meets purpose.
Our Sponsors
Course Map
Race the Rocks Elevation Profile
