Desert RATS Trail Running Festival by UTMB 2027

Desert RATS Trail Running Festival by UTMB 2027

Presented by Gemini Adventures
Trail Running
Fruita, CO
Apr 9–11, 2027
Solo Moderate Ultra Mountainous Singletrack Technical Trail Mixed Surface

100K

Distance
100km
Elevation Gain
6,205ft
Terrain
singletrack
Ultra · Mountainous

50K

Distance
50km
Elevation Gain
3,639ft
Terrain
singletrack
Long · Rolling

21K

Distance
21km
Elevation Gain
1,540ft
Terrain
technical-trail
Mid-Distance · Flat

10K

Distance
10km
Elevation Gain
600ft
Terrain
technical-trail
Short · Flat
Duration
3 Days
Register

About This Event

Last updated June 7, 2026

Event for 2027 has not been confirmed yet… Mark your calendars for an unforgettable trail running experience at the Desert Rats Trail Running Festival by UTMB 2027, taking place in April, on 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. 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 the UTMB World Series in Mont-Blanc, France.

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.

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.

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 stretches endlessly before them.

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.

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.

Gemini Adventures

Event Organizer
View organizer Visit website

Founded in 2003 by a group of passionate runners, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts, Gemini Adventures has become a premier producer of endurance events in the American Southwest. The company is renowned in Colorado for organizing challenging backcountry races that blend intense physical demands with breathtaking natural scenery. Gemini Adventures specializes in events that take participants through remote, rugged landscapes, primarily across Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico.

Key Events

  1. Desert RATS Trail Running Festival
    • One of the flagship events, this festival is part of the prestigious UTMB World Series. It features various distances, including a grueling 100k that takes runners through the dramatic desert terrain around Fruita, Colorado. Participants face significant elevation gains and must navigate technical trails that showcase the stunning beauty of the high desert, including mesas and cliff edges.
  2. Adventure Fest
    • Held in Fruita, Colorado, Adventure Fest is a multi-sport extravaganza that combines mountain biking, gravel racing, and trail running over a single weekend. Events like the Sarlacc Attack 50K MTB, Fruita Trail Half Marathon, and Dirty Edge Gravel 50K are part of this festival, attracting outdoor athletes from across the country. The festivity celebrates not only competition but also the vibrant outdoor culture of Fruita, offering participants and spectators alike a full immersion into the world of endurance sports.
  3. Rexy Co2uT
    • Known as the “Queen of the Desert,” this unique gravel race spans the challenging terrain from Colorado to Utah, connecting the iconic cycling towns of Fruita and Moab. The event is designed for the hardcore gravel enthusiast, featuring long stretches of technical riding, substantial elevation gains, and awe-inspiring desert vistas.
  4. Enchanted Forest Trail Races
    • Set in Red River, New Mexico, this event offers a variety of trail races, including a marathon and a half marathon. The course takes runners through the picturesque Enchanted Forest, known for its lush landscapes and challenging elevation changes, making it one of the top trail running events in the Southwest.

Gemini Adventures is dedicated to creating experiences that push participants beyond their limits while providing them with the support necessary to tackle such demanding courses. Each event is not only a race but a journey through some of the most stunning and remote areas in the United States, making Gemini Adventures a favorite among endurance athletes seeking both competition and adventure.

More from Gemini Adventures

More Trail Running Events in Colorado

Strambecco hub

Trail Running Races in the Rocky Mountains

See every race we track on a single page, with insider notes on season, terrain, gear, and travel.

Explore the guide
Part of the series

UTMB World Series

Explore the series

Strambecco For the Love of Living

Strambecco is your guide to the world's best outdoor experiences — from epic gran fondos to backcountry ski adventures. We curate the events, share the stories, and connect you with the community.

Learn More