The event is held in the middle of winter each year and pairs several lower elevation trail systems, specifically Bar M, Klonzo, and Klondike Trails, according to the race director. While snow is possible, accumulation is unlikely at these elevations. Average high temperatures during January typically linger in the mid-40's, while freezing temperatures are expected overnight.

All racers start and finish at the Gemini Bridges Trailhead, just 20 minutes north of Moab on US-191. With limited parking available, the race director suggest carpooling from town. Other than special events, neither water nor restrooms are available, so bring plenty with you. If you're running this loop on a day other than the race, you might prefer parking at the Brand Trails (Bar-M) Trailhead on the opposing side of the highway. The two trailheads are simply connected by uneventful doubletrack.

With a 10am start on race day, the 9k runners climb a total of 500' through an easy desert loop that awards sweeping views of the snow-capped La Sals. The course begins with doubletrack, then transitions onto groomed singletrack as it winds across the desert floor on Lazy Trail, a local favorite and perfect for newer trail runners. While the fastest racers finish the loop in under 45 minutes, most runners will finish in an hour.

Source: https://www.madmooseevents.com/arches-ultra