The Backbone Ultra is the one and only official ultra-running event bold enough to send you across the entire Backbone Trail in Southern California’s Santa Monica Mountains. Picture it as a 68-mile ridge-line extravaganza equal parts breathtaking scenery and mild existential crisis. And if that’s not your slice of pie, grab 2, 3, or 4 of your bravest friends and take it on relay-style. Misery loves company, after all.
For more than 50 years, hikers and runners have dreamed of this fully linked trail, and now it’s ready to reward the courageous (or the delightfully overconfident) with Pacific Ocean views so beautiful you may momentarily forget that your legs feel like overcooked noodles. The adventure kicks off at Will Rogers State Park and winds its way up the coast, stacking up nearly 13,600 feet of elevation gain ideal for anyone who thinks climbing mountains over and over again is a fun way to spend a weekend. Your reward at the end? A dramatic, Instagram worthy descent down the stunning Ray Miller Trail, where gravity finally stops judging you and starts helping.
Because we prefer quality over chaos, participation is capped at 200 runners. Solo entrants must have completed at least one previous 50-mile trail run proof that you’ve willingly done something ridiculous before. Relay teams, however, don’t need that prerequisite. If you and your friends can handle snacks, banter, and a handoff, you’re in.
Come for the challenge. Stay for the views. And definitely pack snacks you’re going to be out there long enough to question several of your life choices.
