The Vertical Kilometer is the first event of the 3-day Rut, beginning on Friday at 1pm as a mass start. There are two time cutoffs on course with an overall course cutoff of 2 hours and 30 minutes. Elite racers have clocked staggeringly fast times, some as fast as ~50 minutes, though mere mortals should expect to finish anywhere between 1-2 hours.

Instead of returning down the course, racers are rewarded for their efforts with a ride down the Lone Peak Tram with "front row seats to the magnificence of southwest Montana." From the bottom of the lift, you'll face a 2.5-mile walk back to the Big Sky Base Area. Since weather conditions can change drastically over the climb, racers are welcome to leave a drop bag with a change of clothes to be shuttled to the top.

Trekking poles are allowed but might not be as beneficial as you think. Based on prior race photos alone, many racers wear gloves since much of the route requires scrambling and the use of your hands to help you climb. Neither pacers nor crew are allowed for the Vertical Kilometer. There are no aid stations on course, though food and drink are available at the summit for finishers.

Course Details & Source