Mark your calendars for an unforgettable trail running experience at the Desert Rats Trail Running Festival by UTMB, taking place from April 12 to 14, 2024, in the breathtaking trails of Fruita, Colorado. This three-day festival offers a variety of race distances, showcasing the stunning high desert landscape and providing an opportunity for runners of all levels to immerse themselves in the indescribable beauty of the region. Whether you’re a seasoned ultra-runner or a trail enthusiast looking for a new challenge, the Desert Rats Trail Running Festival has a race distance tailored to suit every participant. Rated as one of The Best Trail Running Events in the Rockies the Desert Rats Trail Running Festival by UTMB has become a staple in all trail enthusiasts’ bucket list races. Originally produced just over 20 years ago by Gemini Adventures, this race became part of the UTMB World Series in the Spring of 2023 and gives you the chance to enter for the UTMB World Series in Mont-Blanc, France.
Event & Course Info
Prepare to be captivated by the allure of Fruita, Colorado, as the Desert Rats Trail Running Festival by UTMB beckons trail enthusiasts to conquer its diverse courses. Whether you’re a seasoned ultra-runner or a beginner eager to explore the mesmerizing trails, this festival offers a range of distances, each promising a unique blend of challenge and scenic beauty. The Desert Rats Trail Running Festival by UTMB isn’t just a series of races; it’s a celebration of the spirit of trail running. From the grueling challenges of the 100k to the invigorating trails of the 10k, each course promises a unique adventure, fostering a sense of camaraderie among participants and a deep connection with the awe-inspiring surroundings. As the festival unfolds in Fruita, Colorado, runners can anticipate not only a test of their physical limits but also an immersion in the untamed beauty of the desert landscape. Whether you’re conquering mesas, navigating singletrack, or savoring the views, the Desert Rats Trail Running Festival offers an unforgettable experience for all who answer the call of the trail.
For those craving an ultimate test of endurance, the 100k course unfolds as a challenging odyssey through the desert landscape. With a substantial gain of 6205 feet, runners will ascend mesas, traverse rocky terrains, and find themselves along the edge of cliffs that offer breathtaking views of the majestic Colorado River. It’s a journey that demands both physical prowess and mental fortitude.
Experience the rush of flowing singletrack as the 50k course unfolds, providing a thrilling adventure for participants. Climbing 3639′ elevation and embracing the undulating trails, runners are treated to spectacular views of the vast desert that stretch endlessly before them. It’s a course that invites both seasoned trail runners and those eager to test their limits.
The 21k course strikes a perfect balance, offering a taste of both challenge and the unique desert landscape. With 1540 feet of elevation gain, participants will weave through trails that showcase the breathtaking scenery of Fruita. Each step is an exploration of the delicate harmony between nature’s beauty and the runner’s determination.
Ideal for both beginners and experienced runners, the 10k course beckons participants to explore the mesmerizing trails of Fruita. With a moderate gain of 600 feet, this course introduces runners to the enchanting beauty of the landscape while providing a manageable yet invigorating challenge. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse oneself in the joy of trail running.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Lodging discount provided at Super 8 by Wyndham Fruita with proof of race registration, but you can find many options for accommodations in the area such as the Balanced Rock Inn. Camping in Fruita is gorgeous and plentiful. Check out James M Robb State Park, Rabbit Valley, or the North Fruita Desert at 18 Road. All are a reasonable distance from the events. Camping is not allowed at the start/finish area.
As the festival’s hub nears, tantalize your senses with a visit to Hot Tomato Pizza, a local favorite known for crafting mouthwatering, artisanal pizzas that blend premium ingredients with creative flair. From classic Margheritas to inventive specialty pies, Hot Tomato Pizza ensures a satisfying dining experience for pizza enthusiasts. For those seeking a refreshing libation to complement their culinary journey, the Copper Club Brewing Company stands as a beacon of craft beer excellence. Located in close proximity to the festival’s epicenter, this brewery boasts a diverse selection of handcrafted beers, each brewed with precision and passion.
Fruita, Colorado is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with a plethora of activities that celebrate the region’s natural beauty. One of the highlights is the world-renowned mountain biking trails that weave through the rugged landscapes surrounding Fruita. The 18 Road Trails and Kokopelli Loops beckon riders with thrilling descents, technical challenges, and stunning panoramic views of the Colorado Plateau. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the Colorado River offers a scenic backdrop for kayaking and paddle boarding adventures. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the trails of the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, where a network of paths leads to striking geological formations and overlooks. The Devil’s Canyon Hiking Trail, in particular, provides hikers with an immersive experience in the desert wilderness.
Related Events
Gemini Adventures, founded in 2003 by passionate runners, cyclists, and adventurers, curates challenging backcountry racing experiences set against mesmerizing landscapes primarily in Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. With events held in remote, scenic trails, participants can anticipate not just a race, but a unique outdoor experience where the journey is as rewarding as the competition. Their primary events include the Desert RATS Trail Running Festival which is part of the UTMB World Series, and Adventure Fest which is a unique multi-sport experience in Fruita, CO and includes Sarlacc Attack 50K MTB, Fruita Trail Half Marathon, and Dirty Edge Gravel one of the Best Gravel Events in Colorado and the Rockies. In July, Enchanted Forest Trail Races, one of the Best Trail Running Events in the Southwest, takes place as well as the multi-day Desert RATS 150 Kokopelli Stage Race take place. And to close out summer, the Mountain RATS Trail Runs and Mountain RATS Firebird 25 MTB event takes place in September.
