About This Race
Moab's Red Hot Ultra showcases the dramatic desert landscapes northwest of Moab, Utah, positioned strategically between Arches National Park to the east and Canyonlands National Park to the west. Runners traverse a diverse course mixing jeep roads and singletrack trails while taking in panoramic views of the La Sal Mountains rising to the southeast. The race begins with a challenging climb up a jeep road, immediately rewarding runners with sweeping vistas of Arches National Park's iconic red rock formations. This February event serves as an ideal winter challenge, offering respite from snow-covered trails while delivering technical terrain and significant elevation changes across the high desert. The 50-mile distance represents the crown jewel of a multi-distance event that includes 55K, 33K, and 15K options. With its position as part of Moab's growing trail running scene, the Red Hot Ultra has established itself as a worthy complement to the region's other challenging desert races, combining accessible logistics with demanding terrain that tests both climbing ability and desert navigation skills.
The course begins with an immediate climb up jeep roads, establishing the race's challenging character while providing early views of Arches National Park. Runners then encounter a varied mix of jeep trails and singletrack paths that wind through the high desert terrain northwest of Moab. The route features significant rim trail sections that offer commanding views of both Canyonlands National Park to the west and the snow-capped La Sal Mountains to the southeast. The terrain composition splits evenly between established paths and wider tracks, with no road sections, creating a pure trail running experience through Utah's iconic red rock country.
Aid Stations
8 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
Aid Station 8
Race History
2025 Results
Winning Time
Practical Info
February in Moab typically features cool, dry conditions with daytime temperatures in the 40s-50s Fahrenheit and clear skies, ideal for desert ultra running.
CNY - Moab Regional Airport
Moab offers extensive lodging options from budget motels to luxury resorts, with many runners choosing to extend their stay to explore Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.
Best For
Notable Features
The Red Hot Ultra stands out for its strategic positioning between two of Utah's most famous national parks, offering runners continuous panoramic views throughout the course. The race's February timing provides ideal desert running conditions while most mountain trails remain snow-covered, making it a premier winter ultra destination. The varied terrain combining jeep roads with technical singletrack creates a comprehensive desert running experience, while the rim trail sections deliver some of the most spectacular vistas available in any trail race.