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Amasa Trail Race 10k
A spring ~10k trail race through vibrant red rock canyons.
Moderate Trail Running
- Distance
- 10 km
- Ascent
- 331 m
- Descent
- 331 m
A ~15 mile spring trail race through vibrant red rock canyons, or a perfect year-round tour of Amasa Back.
Trail Running Difficult
Presented by Mad Moose Events, the Amasa Trail Race is one of the best ways to explore "one of Moab's most prized trail systems." Held every spring, this beautiful course explores vibrant red rock canyons, ancient petroglyphs, and awards commanding views of the Colorado River. At times, you can even snag some views of the distant snow-capped La Sals.
Whether you're in town to race or looking for a longer ~15 mile trail run, this course is accessible year round and a great tour of the iconic Amasa Back area. While the loop begins along 4x4 jeep roads, they are far from easy. Expect plenty of slickrock, plus expansive views of Moab's red rock landscape. Overall, 25k racers are faced with a stout 2,200' of climbing on the course, with no listed cutoff time.
In addition to the 15k course, 25k racers spur off onto the Jackson Hole Loop for the additional miles. Circling around a large mesa, this part of the course showcases Moab's quiet backcountry - red rock canyon walls to one side, the Colorado River on the other.
After returning to the single aid station again, the course heads west onto Pothole Arch Trail. If you're running this course other than race day, consider a detour to the end of Pothole Arch Trail. Though quaint compared to other sandstone arches in the area, "the setting is tranquil and very pretty and much of the enjoyment is in getting there," according to gjhikes.com.
Returning via the Rockstacker Trail, the final leg of the race is undoubtedly the most challenging, as the course follows the Jackson Trail along the Colorado River. At times, "there are many very steep sections, sharp corners, and narrow ledges with dangerous cliff exposure," according to gjhikes.com.
For this spring race, all distances begin at 8am at the Kane Creek Parking Area (labeled on some maps as Kane Springs). While the parking area is large, racers should consider carpooling from Moab for the event. Other than race day, there are no facilities and no water at the trailhead.
With average high temperatures in the low-70s and one aid station on course, 25k racers will likely choose a handheld water bottle or small hydration vest. While elite racers may finish just above two hours, most runners will be closer to four hours.
Sources: https://www.gjhikes.com/2016/03/pothole-arch.html https://www.gjhikes.com/2016/03/jackson-trail.html https://www.madmooseevents.com/amasa-trail-race
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