Monterey Ultra

Monterey, United States • 7 Feb 2026

Event overview

The Monterey Ultra 50 Miler takes place February 7, 2026, at Fort Ord National Monument and the Laguna Seca Recreation Area near Monterey, CA. The course distance is 50.7 miles with 7,080 ft of elevation gain and is organized as a 35-mile loop plus a 15-mile loop. The event has a capacity of 150 runners and a 14.5 hour time limit for the 50 mile distance. A separate 50/50 Challenge links this race with the Marin Ultra Challenge 50 Miler for combined leaderboard recognition and a commemorative item for finishers.

Course and logistics

The course runs mostly on moderately technical dirt trails and non-technical fire roads and includes sections of deep sand, rocky and rooty climbs, and wide fire road and single-track. Courses are marked with colored surveyor ribbon about every 200 meters; blue ribbons indicate wrong-way trails. Drop bags are available at Skyline (Mile 17.1 and Mile 39.1) and Laguna Seca (Mile 35.9); pacers may join at Laguna Seca. Aid stations provide gels, chews, snacks, drinks, Skratch Hydration (80-100 calories per 20 fl oz), and basic first aid; the event is cupless so runners must carry their own bottle or reusable cup (HydraPak cups available for purchase). Parking is free within Laguna Seca Recreation Area adjacent to the start/finish. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

51 mi
7080 m+
50 Miler
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Take on scenic dirt trails at Fort Ord and Laguna Seca near Monterey on Feb 7, 2026 with 50K, 25K and 10K options over rolling dunes and late climbs. Aid stations and finish medals await; this is a cupless event so bring a reusable bottle.

Run Spartan Trail at Toro Park in Salinas on May 31, where rolling golden hills and smooth trails set the stage for marathon, half and 10K trail races. Enjoy scenic singletrack, a lively community vibe and team and service member discounts.

On July 11 join the San Lorenzo River Trail Run in Santa Cruz and run through coastal redwoods and scenic river crossings. Distances range from 10K to 50K, pre registered runners get T shirts and all finishers earn a custom medal.