CONTRIBUTED CONTENT — It’s time to get dirty while enjoying some of the most picturesque running territory Southern Utah has to offer. The Red Mountain 55K, 30K & Half Marathon combines roads and trails to create an unforgettable challenge for ultrarunning and power hiking enthusiasts.
On Saturday, March 4, experience unbeatable views and hill climbs sure to challenge even the most experienced trail runners. The 55K race covers more than 4,000 feet of total elevation gain, yet the 30K and half marathon options are no easy feat either.
All three courses incorporate the scenic singletrack trails of the Santa Clara River Reserve, which is located in the west-central portion of Washington County directly southwest of the communities of Ivins and Santa Clara and east of the Shivwits Band of Paiutes Reservation. This area offers stunning views of the Red Mountains, the Pine Valley Mountains and Snow Canyon State Park.
“It’s just a beautiful venue,” race director Dan Aamodt said. “The scenery is spectacular, the race is well-organized and we have great community support.”
An aid station with snacks, beverages and restrooms will be available at the Cove Wash Trailhead. The race is designed with a hub-and-spoke layout, where participants follow individual loops that branch out from a central location. Runners who sign up for longer distances will complete more loops. Desert weather in early spring is unpredictable, so come prepared for the elements.
Awards will be given to the top male and female finishers as well as the top three finishers in age groups that range from 14 and under to 75 and over. All finishers will receive a short-sleeve shirt, a souvenir, a finisher’s medal, a catered post-race meal and tired legs.
Due to limited vehicle access, runners must ride shuttle buses from Unity Park, located at 200 W. 400 South in Ivins, to the starting area. All races will begin at 6:30 a.m. near the historic Jacob Hamblin Home in Santa Clara.
The cutoff time is 3:30 p.m. Race organizers will provide rides to anyone unable to finish before the nine-hour mark. Participants may also choose to continue at their own risk, but no further medical or nutritional support will be provided.
Registration costs $89 for the half marathon, $94 for the 30K race and $109 for the 55K race. All participants must register online no later than 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, March 2, and pick up their packet either the following day between 3-7 p.m. at the St. George Running Center, located at 2736 E. Red Cliffs Drive in St. George, or on race day beginning at 5 a.m. at Unity Park.
Space is limited, so don’t wait to sign up. Race organizers allow a maximum of 350 participants to help maintain the integrity of the trails and surrounding environment.
The Red Mountain 55K, 30K & Half Marathon was founded by the St. George Running Center in 2008 and is sponsored by 435-Injured. A portion of every entry goes toward the fundraising efforts of various charities and organizations in Washington County.
Sign up today at RedMountain50K.com.
Event details
- What: Red Mountain 55K, 30K & Half Marathon.
- When: Saturday, March 4, from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Where: Unity Park, 200 W. 400 South, Ivins.
- Tickets: $89, half marathon; $94, 30K, $109, 55K.
- Resources: Website.
Written by ALEXA MORGAN for St. George News.
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