Cirque Series - Mt Baldy

Mt Baldy : CIRQUE SERIES

The event is a loop trail race at Mt Baldy in California with a distance of 9.1 miles and 3,926 feet of vertical gain. The course starts at the ski area parking lot at 6,400 feet and ascends to the summit of Mt San Antonio at 10,064 feet. Early sections use ski area service roads before moving into high-alpine terrain.

Runners traverse the Devil’s Backbone Trail, a narrow ridgeline with exposure and steep drop offs that requires sure footing and focus. The route reaches the summit block, then descends the Baldy Bowl on the Ski Hut Trail to the historic Sierra Club Ski Hut. The course continues through forested single track, connects with Falls Road, includes a final climb to Manker Cutoff, and finishes back at the ski area parking lot.

Safety information notes the course is steep, rocky, and can be wet or slippery at high elevation. Competitors must follow orange flagging; if a section lacks flagging, participants should return to the last marked trail. If an injured competitor is encountered, inform a course marshal, EMT, Mt Baldy Patrol, or rescue services. There is a strict cut off at Aid Station #1 of 1 hour 30 minutes; this cutoff may be adjusted by race organizers.

The race is capped at 500 runners and takes place within Angeles National Forest. Every competitor receives a snapback, giveaway ticket, logoed bib, medal, a sponsor swag bag, and free professional photos. Cirque Series hats are available at the event merch booth. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.