Monterey Ultra
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About the race
The Monterey Ultra 50 Mile is a trail ultramarathon held at Fort Ord National Monument near Monterey, California, with support centered at the Laguna Seca Recreation Area. The full course is approximately 50.7 miles with about 7,080 feet of elevation gain, arranged as a 35 mile loop plus a 15 mile loop. Terrain includes wide fire roads, twisting single-track, deep sand, rocky and rooty climbs.
Distances include:
- 50 mile ultramarathon
- 50K trail run
- 25K trail run
- 10K trail run
The event uses marked ribbons and signs; blue ribbons indicate wrong way. Aid stations are stocked with a variety of foods, drinks, and basic first aid supplies. Drop bags are available at Skyline and Laguna Seca aid stations and are encountered multiple times on course. Runners are advised to carry a headlamp and at least one 20 oz bottle because the event is cupless; reusable cups and soft flasks will be available for purchase at the event. Crew access is limited: Laguna Seca and Toro Creek aid stations are accessible without long hikes, and pacers may join at Laguna Seca.
Field capacity for the Saturday events is 600 runners in total. Timing and live aid station tracking are provided, with a small additional fee for live tracking. Post-race provisions include sweet and salty snacks, grilled items, and fresh fruit. Awards and finish items include custom medals for all finishers and a custom hat for all 50 mile finishers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
