Rut Trifecta 82.5K
50K28K2-8M
The Rut Mountain Runs
Sep 10, 2026
MontanaClimb high, dig deep, and conquer Montana’s most iconic mountain race
Overview
The Rut 50K is not just a race, it’s a full-blown mountain adventure that will test your grit and reward your spirit. Set against the rugged backdrop of Big Sky Resort, this event takes you into the wild heart of Montana’s peaks, where every switchback delivers jaw-dropping views and every climb pushes you to discover new limits. From the dizzying heights of Lone Peak to the technical ridgelines of Headwaters, the 50K course is a rite of passage for trail runners seeking true alpine challenge.
Expect electric aid stations buzzing with volunteers, high-energy support from the trail community, and a finish line celebration that makes every ounce of effort worth it. Whether you are chasing the podium or chasing your own summit dreams, The Rut delivers an unforgettable mountain running experience.
UTMB Index: falseCupless
0 participant limit
Course
Elevation Gain9,300 ft
Elevation Loss9,420 ft
Max Altitude11,166 ft
Cutoff Time7:00PM
The 50K course takes runners from Big Sky Resort up into rugged alpine country, climbing steep ridges and summiting Lone Peak. Runners will traverse Headwaters Ridge, face long exposed sections with technical footing, and drop through rocky switchbacks before climbing again. The course is marked with orange pin flags and winds through a mix of singletrack, ski trails, and scree fields. Weather can swing from hot sun to snow in hours, so expect the unexpected.
Cutoff Details
Start Time
6:00AM–6:25AM in waves
Cutoff Time
Moonlight #2, 9:40AM
Swiftcurrent, 1:15PM
Summit, 2:30PM
Shedhorn, 4:00PM
Andesite, 5:15PM
Finish line, 7:00PM
Aid Stations
There are six stations on the 50K. They are fully stocked with water, Skratch products, salty and sweet snacks, medical support, and energetic volunteers. Skratch chews, hydration mixes, and energy bars are featured.
Logistics
Schedule
Friday
11:45AM-6:00PM | Packet pickup in Vista Hall
Saturday
10:00AM-6:00PM | Packet pickup in Vista Hall
Sunday
5:00AM-5:45AM | Packet pickup in Vista Hall
5:00AM-5:45AM | Drop bag drop off near start
6:00AM-6:25AM | Wave starts
7:00PM | Course closes
6:30PM | Awards ceremony in the Base Area
8:00PM-11:00PM | After Party in the village
Bib Pickup
Photo ID is required. We strongly recommend using the Friday or Saturday packet pickup to avoid Sunday morning congestion.
Drop Bags
Runners receive a Rut drop bag at check-in. These are delivered to Swiftcurrent Aid Station and returned to the finish line area later in the day. Bags left behind after the race weekend are not returned.
Crew & Pacers
Crewing and pacing are not allowed. Spectators can cheer from designated lift-accessible aid stations and finish area viewing spots with scenic lift tickets.
Swag & Medals
Runners receive a 2025 Rut shirt, gear bag, and a finisher medal. Podium prizes include custom awards and cash prizes for top three overall men, women, and non-binary finishers. Age group awards span 16–19 through 80+.
Getting There
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is 45 minutes from Big Sky. Shuttles and local buses connect visitors to the resort village.
Driving Directions
Big Sky Resort Base Area, 50 Big Sky Resort Road, Big Sky, MT 59716
Parking
Follow Big Sky Resort parking instructions. Village parking fills quickly; plan for shuttle or walk access to the start.
Lodging
Discounted rates are available at Big Sky Resort lodges. Forest Service campgrounds are available along the Gallatin River, but camping is not permitted on resort property.
Big Sky, montana
Requirements
The Rut 50K is a technical alpine race. Runners must be prepared for exposure, steep climbs, and fast-changing weather.
Mandatory Gear
Mandatory items for all 50K runners include:
Space blanket
Hooded waterproof and breathable jacket
32oz water carrying capacity
Headlamp (due to pre-sunrise start)
Policies
Race Policies
Charity & Beneficiary
The Rut partners with Inclusive Outdoors Project, Big Sky SNO, and Protect Our Winters to support equity, community resilience, and climate action.
Land Acknowledgement
Big Sky sits on the traditional homelands of the Apsáalooke (Crow), Shoshone, and Salish peoples. The Runt Run extends the spirit of respect and celebration to the youngest members of our running community.
About The Rut Mountain Runs
The Rut Mountain Runs bring the thrill of global-class trail racing to the wild heart of Montana. Founded by ultrarunners Mike Foote and Mike Wolfe, this weekend festival of mountain running combines serious alpine adventure with a playful, community-first spirit. Lone Peak at Big Sky Resort provides a rugged and dramatic backdrop where runners test their grit on steep ridges, exposed alpine sections, and wild terrain, while spectators and volunteers bring unmatched energy to the experience.
The Rut is not just about racing; it’s about celebration. Expect elk bugles at the start line, free mullets at the finish, tattoos for the bold, and prize money in $1 bills. With distances from the VK to the 50K, plus the Trifecta challenge for those who want it all, there’s something here for every mountain runner. More than 4,500 runners and thousands of spectators now gather each year, making The Rut one of North America’s most iconic and electric trail running weekends.
Disclaimer
We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information on Kåduka, but details may change. Please always confirm the latest information on the official race website. See something that needs correcting? Send us a note at feedback@kaduka.app