50 miles
Starting and finishing at Shirttail Creek Campground near Foresthill, the course plunges into and climbs out of the American River canyon multiple times. Runners navigate historic mining trails including Euchre Bar, Pioneer Mine, Ebeneezer's Highway, Green Valley, Mumford Bar, and Italian Bar. The route combines established trails with significant off-trail sections requiring navigation skills and bushwhacking experience.
The canyon's rugged topography creates relentless elevation changes, with steep descents followed by equally punishing climbs. Runners pass through one aid station location twice during their journey, where drop bags and crew support are available. The race director deliberately withholds detailed course maps until the week before the event, adding an element of uncertainty that reflects the race's adventure-focused philosophy.