Pony Express Trail Run

Pony Express Trail 50 and 100

The Pony Express Trail 50 and 100 is an ultramarathon in the west desert of Utah that follows the historic Pony Express Trail of 1860. The courses run entirely on dirt roads and have about 3,000 feet of total elevation gain and loss.

Distances

• 100-mile course
• 50-mile course

Both races start at Lookout Campground west of Faust, Utah. The 100-mile route goes out about 58.2 miles to Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge and then returns to finish at Simpson Springs, roughly 16 miles west of the start. The 50-mile course follows the same direction and finishes at the Blackrock Pony Express station site.

The course is remote and crew support is required for both distances. Crews typically "leapfrog" the runner, providing food, drink and transportation along the route. Pacers and bicycles are permitted to accompany runners. Timing checkpoints are located at Simpson Springs, Dugway Topaz Well, Blackrock, and Fish Springs and there are checkpoint cutoffs.

Because the event is crew supported, there are no staffed aid stations. Bathrooms without running water are available at Simpson Springs and Fish Springs, and porta-potties are provided at the start and at Blackrock. A barbeque is held at Blackrock for runners and crews. Crews are advised to carry a spare tire, jack, wrench, sufficient fuel and water. Water is available at Simpson Springs.

The route shares public dirt roads and traffic may be present on certain days. Reflective gear is recommended and extra caution is advised on narrow or steep sections such as Dugway Pass. Camping is common at the start area; the nearest commercial lodging is about 50 to 60 miles away in Tooele or Lehi, with Delta or Nephi as southern alternatives. Typical weather ranges from highs in the 60s to lows in the 30s. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.