Backbone Trail Ultra
Santa Monica Mountains, United States • 16 Jan 2027
Backbone Trail Ultra
The Backbone Trail Ultra is a 68 mile trail running event in the Santa Monica Mountains, California. The course follows the Backbone Trail from Will Rogers State Park along the coastal ridge and finishes with a descent on the Ray Miller Trail. The published elevation gain for the route is nearly 13,600 feet.
Entry is limited to 200 participants. Solo entrants must show previous completion of at least one 50 mile trail run. Relay teams of 2, 3, or 4 are allowed and do not require the solo entry prerequisite.
Organizers work with National Parks, State Parks, the MRCA, and other local agencies to secure permits for the planned date of January 16, 2027. Registration is scheduled to open on July 1, 2026. Previously, the event was canceled in 2019 after the Woolsey Wildfire caused significant damage to sections of the Backbone Trail and surrounding areas.
The event description notes the full trail link spans the Santa Monica Mountains and highlights long distance ridge running with substantial climbing. Participation is capped and entry requirements differ for solo runners and relay teams. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.