Running in Utah
Utah is a trail runner's paradise with dramatic red rock canyons, alpine mountain trails, and a running culture that takes full advantage of the state's incredible natural beauty. Salt Lake City provides easy access to both desert and mountain terrain within minutes.
Climate
Four seasons with dry air and abundant sunshine
Terrain
Unmatched variety
Top Race
Salt Lake City Marathon
Climate and Weather
Four seasons with dry air and abundant sunshine. Salt Lake City has cold, snowy winters and warm, dry summers. Southern Utah (Moab, St. George) has mild winters and hot summers. The dry climate makes running feel comfortable even in warm temperatures.
Terrain and Landscape
Unmatched variety. The Wasatch Mountains rise directly east of Salt Lake City with alpine trails. Southern Utah has iconic red rock canyon terrain. The state features slot canyons, high plateaus, desert washes, and mountain single-track. Trail running is world-class.
Top Running Routes
Bonneville Shoreline Trail
15+ milesSalt Lake City
A trail along the ancient shoreline of Lake Bonneville on the foothills above Salt Lake City, with mountain and valley views.
Moab Brand Trails
5-15 milesMoab
Red rock single-track trails through the iconic slickrock desert near Arches National Park.
Jordan River Parkway
45 milesSalt Lake City
A paved trail following the Jordan River through the Salt Lake Valley.
Big Cottonwood Canyon Trails
5-20 milesSalt Lake City
Alpine trails accessing the Wasatch Mountains with wildflower meadows and panoramic ridgeline views.
Snow Canyon State Park
3-7 milesSt. George
Trails through red and white sandstone formations in the warm southwestern corner of Utah.
Popular Races
Salt Lake City Marathon
Salt Lake City
Speedgoat 50K
Snowbird
St. George Marathon
St. George
Running Culture
Utah has a deeply committed running community with trail running at its core. The Wasatch Mountain Running Series draws thousands. Moab has become a destination for trail and ultra runners. The Speedgoat 50K is one of the most challenging mountain races in the country. Salt Lake City runners have direct trail access from the city.
Safety Tips
Carry extra water in desert terrain. Utah heat combined with dry air dehydrates faster than you expect.
Altitude affects visitors. Salt Lake City is at 4,200 feet; mountain trails go much higher.
Watch for rattlesnakes on desert and canyon trails.
Mountain weather can change rapidly. Carry a layer even on warm summer days.
Make Running in Utah a Game
Turn your Utah runs into a real-world strategy game. Capture territory by running loops, compete with local runners on leaderboards, and explore every street through a Fog of War mechanic. Motera adds purpose and competition to every mile.
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MoteraFrequently Asked Questions
Is Utah good for trail running?
Utah is one of the best states in the country for trail running. The combination of red rock desert trails, alpine mountain paths, and a passionate running community makes it a world-class destination. Moab and the Wasatch Mountains are the highlights.
What is the Speedgoat 50K?
The Speedgoat 50K is an extremely challenging mountain race at Snowbird ski resort near Salt Lake City. Created by ultrarunner Karl Meltzer, it features over 11,000 feet of elevation gain across rugged Wasatch Mountain terrain at altitudes above 10,000 feet.
When is the best time to run in Utah?
Spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) are ideal for most areas. Summer is excellent in the mountains but too hot for desert running. Southern Utah (St. George, Moab) is best from October through April. The St. George Marathon in October is timed perfectly.
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