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.