About This Race
Set against Moab's striking red rock landscape, the Behind The Rocks Ultra explores one of the area's most remote and scenic wilderness study areas. The race starts and finishes along the Behind the Rocks Trail, where towering Navajo Sandstone formations create a dramatic backdrop that remains visible throughout much of the course. This challenging ultra traverses remote desert trails through terrain that showcases the high desert's stark beauty and technical demands. With 6,791 feet of elevation gain across 50 miles, the course winds through sandstone fins and domes that define this lesser-known corner of Moab's trail network. Seven aid stations provide support across the 14-hour time limit, essential given the remote nature of much of the route. Organized by Mad Moose Events, the race offers multiple distance options from 10 miles to 50 miles, allowing runners to experience this unique landscape according to their abilities and goals. The March timing provides ideal desert running conditions, avoiding the extreme heat of summer while offering clear views of the dramatic geological features that make this region distinctive.
The course follows a network of desert trails through the Behind the Rocks Wilderness Study Area, characterized by technical terrain that winds between and over sandstone formations. The route includes 40% singletrack paths and 60% wider tracks, providing varied footing across the challenging desert landscape. The significant elevation gain of 6,791 feet is distributed throughout the 50-mile distance, requiring sustained climbing and technical descents over sandstone and desert terrain.
Location
Aid Stations
7 stations along the course
Aid Station 1
Aid Station 2
Aid Station 3
Aid Station 4
Aid Station 5
Aid Station 6
Aid Station 7
Practical Info
Late March in Moab typically offers cool morning temperatures in the 40s-50s°F, warming to comfortable 60s-70s°F during the day, with low humidity and generally clear skies ideal for desert running.
CNY - Canyonlands Field Airport
Moab offers extensive lodging options from budget motels to luxury resorts, though early booking is recommended as the town is a popular destination year-round.
Best For
Notable Features
The race provides access to one of Moab's most remote wilderness study areas, offering runners a chance to experience dramatic sandstone formations and desert landscapes away from the crowds that frequent other Moab trails. The course showcases towering Navajo Sandstone domes and fins that create a distinctive high desert running environment.