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Race guide · Moab, Utah
How to train for Moab's Red Hot
Desert jeep trails, singletrack and rim trails just west of Arches National Park. Here's what to know and how to get ready.
Next race Sat Feb 27, 2027
| Distance | Climb | Start | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 Mile | 50 mi | 7,028 ft | Sat 6:00 AM |
| 50K | 31 mi | 4,639 ft | Sat 7:00 AM |
| 30K | 18.6 mi | 2,838 ft | Sat 8:00 AM |
All distances start and finish at Seven Mile Parking north of Moab.
What makes it hard
Mixed desert terrain
A mix of jeep trails and singletrack, with rim trails along the way.
Train for it: Run on varied surfaces, including rough and rocky ground.
Climbing that adds up
The 50-miler gains about 7,000 ft, enough to wear you down if your climbing legs aren't there.
Train for it: A hill session every week, plus long runs with sustained climbs.
Late-winter desert weather
Late February in Moab usually means a cold start and a cool day that can warm up quickly.
Train for it: Practise your layering on long runs and plan what you'll shed.
How long to train
Plan on 16–20 weeks for the 50-miler, 12–16 for the 50K and 8–12 for the 30K if you're already running 4–5 days a week.
Get a plan built around race day
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How much elevation gain is Moab's Red Hot?
About 7,000 ft for the 50-miler, 4,600 ft for the 50K and 2,800 ft for the 30K. The race now lists a 50K rather than the old 55K.
When is Moab's Red Hot 2027?
Saturday, February 27, 2027, according to the organiser. Always confirm on the official race site.
Race facts checked October 2, 2026 against madmooseevents.com. Confirm dates and rules with the organiser. Vert.run is not affiliated with the race.