Backbone Trail Ultra
Santa Monica Mountains, United States • 16 Jan 2027
Backbone Trail Ultra, Santa Monica Mountains, CA
The Backbone Trail Ultra is a point to point trail event covering 68 miles along the Backbone Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains. The course begins at Will Rogers State Park and moves along the coastal ridge line, accumulating nearly 13,600 feet of elevation gain. The route concludes with a descent on the Ray Miller Trail and offers Pacific Ocean views along portions of the course.
Participation is limited to 200 runners. Solo entrants must show prior completion of at least one 50 miles trail run. Relay teams of two, three, or four runners are permitted and do not require the solo entry prerequisite.
The event is scheduled for January 16, 2027. Registration opens July 1, 2026. Organizers are working with National Parks, State Parks, MRCA, and other local agencies to secure permits for the planned date. Historically, the event was canceled in 2019 because the Woolsey Wildfire damaged sections of the Backbone Trail and surrounding areas. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.