CONTRIBUTED CONTENT — Are you ready to get dirty while enjoying some of the most picturesque scenery Southern Utah has to offer? The Red Mountain 50K, 30K & Half Marathon races combine roads and trails to create an unforgettable challenge for ultrarunning and power hiking enthusiasts.
Participants in the Red Mountain 50K trail run, Ivins, Utah, March 4, 2023 | Photo courtesy of Underground Runner Series, St. George News
On Saturday, March 2, experience unbeatable views and hill climbs sure to test even the most rugged competitors. The 50K race covers more than 4,000 feet of total elevation gain, yet the 30K and half marathon options are no easy feats either.
“This race has been around for a long time,” said Lyle Anderson, the event’s new owner. “People love the simplicity of it, and they love the trails. It’s really scenic.”
All three races will begin at 6:30 a.m. near the Gates Lane bridge in Santa Clara, across the street from the historic Jacob Hamblin Home. Due to limited vehicle access, runners must arrange a dropoff near the starting line or ride shuttle buses from the finish line at Unity Park in Ivins.
Each race course incorporates 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.
Desert weather in early spring is unpredictable, so be prepared for the elements. Runners are encouraged to bring their own hydration pack and nutrition.
Participants in the Red Mountain 50K trail run, Ivins, Utah, March 4, 2023 | Photo courtesy of Underground Runner Series, St. George News
An aid station with snacks, beverages and restrooms will be available at the Cove Wash trailhead. The course winds in clover fashion back into the aid station four times before heading to the finish line.
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 gift, a finisher’s medal, post-race food and tired legs.
Space is limited to help maintain the integrity of the trails and surrounding environment, so don’t wait to sign up. Registration costs $119 for the 50K race, $95 for the 30K race and $90 for the half marathon.
Online registration closes on Thursday, Feb. 29, at noon. Runners may pick up their packets at the St. George Running Center on Friday, March 1, between 3-7 p.m. or on race day at Unity Park from 5-5:30 a.m.
Anderson, the owner of Underground Runner Series, added the Red Mountain race to his portfolio last year along with the Baker’s Dozen Half Marathon & 5K and the Run Run Reindeer 5K, both popular events that inspire local families to be active together. He also plans to establish new races for Southern Utah’s running community in the near future.
“Our series was created to focus on all the things that makes running fun for most of us,” he said. “So grab your costumes, your running shoes and come find out what it means to be an Underground Runner.”
Event details
What: Red Mountain 50K, 30K & Half Marathon.
When: Saturday, March 2, starting at 6:30 a.m.
Where: Unity Park, 200 W. 400 South, Ivins.
Tickets: 55K, $110; 30K, $95; half marathon, $90.
Resources: Website.
Written by ALEXA MORGAN for St. George News.
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