Updated December 4, 2024
Moab Run the Rocks is a three-day stage race on the legendary singletrack of Moab, Utah. The race, produced by the TransRockies Race Series, takes you through some of the most iconic trails in Moab, such as the Slickrock Trail, the Porcupine Rim Trail, and the Klondike Bluffs Trail. You will experience a variety of landscapes, from rocky deserts and red-rock cliffs to alpine meadows and snow-capped mountains. You will also enjoy breathtaking views of the Colorado River, Arches National Park, and Canyonlands National Park. The race is part of the highly acclaimed TransRockies Race Series and rated by Strambecco as a Best-in-Class Trail Running Race Event in the Southwest takes place in one of our recommended Best Destinations for Outdoor Athletes - Moab, UT.
Event & Course Info
Moab Run the Rocks lets you choose between two race lengths: The Full Pint or The Half Pint. Both options consist of three stages held over three days. The Full Pint offers a spectacular route totaling 53.6 miles (85.6 km) and 4,480 ft (1,356 m) of vertical gain, while The Half Pint delivers a shorter but equally thrilling route totaling 33.1 miles (53.1 km) and 2,670 ft (811 m) of vertical gain.
Moab Run the Rocks is more than just a race. It is also a trail running festival where you can meet and mingle with other runners, enjoy live music and entertainment, and sample local food and drinks. The race organizers provide transportation, aid stations, medical support, timing services, a finisher’s medal, a race shirt, and a swag bag. You can also opt for a VIP package that includes accommodation, meals, and massages.
Moab Run the Rocks is a unique opportunity to challenge yourself, have fun, and explore one of the best adventure hubs in the US. Registration is limited to 500 runners and commonly sells out.
Here’s what some of the past participants have to say about Moab Run the Rocks:
“Moab Run the Rocks was an amazing experience. The trails were incredible, the views were stunning, and the atmosphere was awesome. I loved every minute of it and can’t wait to do it again.” - Sarah, Full Pint finisher.
“This was my first stage race, and I had a blast. The race was well organized, the staff was friendly and helpful, and the other runners were supportive and inspiring. I highly recommend Moab Run the Rocks to anyone who loves trail running.” - Mike, Half Pint finisher.
Part of the TransRockies Race Series
TransRockies Race Series is a series of events that span road cycling, mountain biking, trail running, and gravel biking. The events occur in some of North America's most beautiful and rugged destinations, such as Alberta, British Columbia, Colorado, and Utah. The TransRockies Race Series is not just for elite athletes. It is designed to cater to both competitive and recreational participants, with different categories, distances, and formats to suit different levels of ability and experience. Whether you want to race solo or as a team for one day or for six days, you will find an event that suits you.
The TransRockies Race Series is also more than just a race. It is an adventure that combines fitness, fun, and friendship. You will get to enjoy the stunning scenery, the diverse terrain, and the friendly atmosphere of each event. You will also get to experience the camaraderie and support of fellow racers, volunteers, and organizers. You will make memories and connections that will last a lifetime.
The TransRockies Race Series features ten events over nearly 40 days annually, including Moab Run the Rocks, Moab Rocks, Moab Fondo Fest which includes the Gran Fondo Moab and Gravel Fondo Moab, Golden Rush, Gran Fondo Badlands, TransRockies Single Track-6, TransRockies Run, TransRockies Gravel Royale, TranSelkirks Run, and the Golden Ultra.
We consider their races and events to be some of the best out there and have been featured in a handful of our popular 'Best' articles including: the best road cycling race events in the Southwest, the best MTB race events in the Southwest, the best gravel cycling race events in the Rockies, the best Mountain Bike Events in the Northwest, and the best cycling race events in all of Canada.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Trail Running in Moab & Beyond
Moab is one of our top recommended destinations for outdoor and endurance athletes. If you are planning to travel to Moab for Moab Run the Rocks, you might want to extend your stay and explore more of the trail running opportunities in the area. Moab is a trail running paradise, offering a wide range of trails for all skill levels and preferences. Whether you want to run on slickrock, sand, dirt, or gravel, you will find a trail that suits you.
Some of the most popular trails in Moab include:
- Dead Horse Rim Loop: A moderate 5.2-mile loop that offers spectacular views of the Colorado River Canyon and Dead Horse Point State Park.
- Park Avenue Trail: An easy 1.8-mile out-and-back trail that takes you through a grand boulevard of rock formations in Arches National Park.
- Fisher Towers Trail: A hard 4.2-mile out-and-back trail that follows a ridge line with stunning views of the Fisher Towers, a group of sandstone pinnacles.
- Aztec Butte Trail: A moderate 1.6-mile loop that climbs to the top of two buttes, where you can see ancient Puebloan structures and panoramic views of Canyonlands National Park.
- Sand Dune Arch and Broken Arch: An easy 1.5-mile loop that visits two of the most unique arches in Arches National Park.
For more trail running options in Moab, you can check out AllTrails, iRunFar, or Great Runs.
Other Things to Do in Moab for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Moab is not only a trail running destination but also a playground for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. There are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Moab, such as hiking, biking, rafting, rock climbing, skydiving, and exploring off-road 4x4 adventures.
Some of the most popular outdoor attractions in Moab are:
- Arches National Park: A world-famous natural sandstone arch park that features over 2,000 arches, as well as other rock formations, such as spires, fins, and balanced rocks.
- Canyonlands National Park: A vast and rugged park that showcases the beauty and diversity of the Colorado Plateau, with four distinct districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers.
- Dead Horse Point State Park: A scenic state park that overlooks a gooseneck bend of the Colorado River and offers hiking, biking, camping, and stargazing opportunities.
- Moab Tourism Center: A one-stop shop for booking and planning your outdoor adventures in Moab, such as 4x4 tours, rafting trips, skydiving experiences, and more.
Moab: Accommodations
Moab has a variety of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget, from cozy cabins and luxury condos to rustic campgrounds and hip glamping sites. Here are some of the best places to rest your head in Moab.
If you prefer the comfort and convenience of a hotel, you can choose from several options in downtown Moab or nearby. Some of the popular hotels include Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn and Hampton Inn Moab, both of which offer free breakfast, Wi-Fi, parking, a swimming pool, and a fitness center. You can also enjoy the stunning views of the red rock formations from your room or balcony.
For a more immersive experience in nature, you can camp in one of the many campgrounds in and around Moab. You can find campsites with basic amenities such as toilets, water, and fire rings or more luxurious ones with showers, hookups, and Wi-Fi. Some of the best campgrounds are The Needles Outpost Campground, located near the entrance of Canyonlands National Park, Desert Moon Campground and RV Park, situated in the ghost town of Thompson Springs, and St Dane’s Cabins & Campground, offering spacious sites and full hookups.
If you want more space and privacy, you can rent a vacation home in Moab or the surrounding area. You can find houses, apartments, cabins, and more on Vrbo and Airbnb, with various features and amenities such as a kitchen, laundry, patio, hot tub, and fireplace. You can also enjoy the scenic views of the mountains, desert, or river from your rental.
For a unique and memorable stay, you can try glamping in Moab, which combines the fun of camping with the comfort of a hotel. You can stay in a tent, yurt, tipi, or cabin equipped with beds, furniture, and sometimes electricity and heating. You can also enjoy outdoor activities and facilities such as fire pits, hammocks, and games. Some of the best glamping sites are Where The Wild Things Camp, located on 25 acres of private land near Looking Glass Arch, Aerie Loft, offering a hotel-style studio with panoramic views, and Under Canvas Moab, featuring safari-style tents with en suite bathrooms.
No matter what kind of accommodation you choose, you will surely have a great time in Moab, exploring the amazing landscapes and attractions this desert destination offers.
Related Events in Utah
For more premier events and races that take place in Moab, check out our feature on this great adventure town: Best Destinations for Outdoor Athletes - Moab, UT.
For multi-sport athletes looking for other Strambecco best-in-class race events taking place in Utah, check out our picks of the Best Cycling Race Events in Utah featuring favorites like the True Grit Epic MTB and Belgian Waffle Ride BWR Utah.
Multi-sport athletes looking for other premier races and events in Moab, Utah, and the broader Southwest region can take a peek at all of our related Strambecco Best rated event guides:
