Backbone Trail Ultra
Santa Monica Mountains, United States • 16 Jan 2027
Event
The Backbone Trail Ultra is a long-distance trail event held in the Santa Monica Mountains, California. The course covers 68 miles along the Backbone Trail and includes nearly 13,600 feet of elevation gain. The route begins at Will Rogers State Park and finishes with a descent on the Ray Miller Trail. Participation is capped at 200 runners. Registration opens on July 1, 2026.
Course and entry
The event can be entered solo or as a relay. Relay teams may consist of 2, 3, or 4 runners. Solo entrants must show completion of at least one prior 50-mile trail run; relay teams have no such prerequisite. Organizers are working with federal, state, and local agencies to secure permits for a January 16 event date. The event has a prior cancellation history related to wildfire damage to the Backbone Trail and surrounding areas; trail repairs and agency evaluations were noted after that cancellation. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.