COURSE DESCRIPTION

The course begins at 6,400 feet in the ski area parking lot, immediately pointing runners skyward toward — Mt. San Antonio at 10,064 feet. From the start, the route wastes no time gaining elevation as runners climb the ski area service roads en route to the Notch. The early ascent is steady and unrelenting, quickly spreading the field as the developed base area gives way to high-alpine terrain and expanding views across the San Gabriel Mountains.

Upon reaching the Notch, runners transition onto the legendary Devil’s Backbone Trail — a dramatic ridgeline traverse known for its exposure and breathtaking sightlines. With steep drop-offs on either side, this section demands focus and sure footing as the summit block rises ahead with every step along the spine. The final push to the top of Mt. San Antonio is both grueling and inspiring. At 10,064 feet, runners are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views that can stretch from the Mojave Desert to the Pacific Ocean on clear days — a true summit in every sense.

After tagging the peak, the course descends across the Baldy Bowl via the Ski Hut Trail. This rugged alpine drop loses elevation quickly over technical terrain, delivering runners to the historic Sierra Club Ski Hut tucked beneath Baldy’s imposing north face. From the hut, the route continues downhill along forested single track before reconnecting with Falls Road. Legs will already feel the impact of the descent, but efficiency here is key as runners prepare for the final transition.

A short but notable climb leads runners up to Manker Cutoff — the last upward push on the course. From there, the race turns decisively downhill for the finishing run back toward the ski area. What follows is a fast but quad-testing descent where gravity takes over and runners empty the tank on the return to 6,400 feet.

The finish line awaits back at the parking lot where the loop began — completing a true cirque route showcasing Baldy’s most iconic terrain: ridge, summit, bowl, forest, and mountain road. A course as beautiful as it is demanding — and unmistakably Mt. Baldy.

SAFETY LANGUAGE

The course is steep, rocky, & extreme at times. Summit is high eleveation, potentially wet & slippery with potential exposure. You will be pushing hard for the summit, putting yourself to your capacity, lungs, grit, & strength. Please note, we will have the course well marked, it is imperative, for your safety, you follow precise path of flagging. Please be mindful of other competitors, if you encounter an injured competitor please inform the nearest course Marshall, EMT, Mt Baldy Patrol, or Rescue Services.  Course is well marked with orange flagging, if you suddenly find yourself on a path without immediate orange flags to indicate the route, please turn around, go back the way you came until you get back on trail with orange flags. 

**Every competitor is subject to a strict cut-off time at Aid Station #1 of 1 hrs 30 minutes (competitor will take walk back down). We typically see 2-10 people not make cutoff. Goal is to have as many complete the race as possible, also being mindful of safety & logistical considerations. Please note cutoff time may be adjusted at the discretion of race organization the week of the race. 

**Course subject to be adjusted as necessary

**The race course is located in Angeles National Forest

Average Race Category Stats Across Our Other races:

Sport Registrations: 71% of runners

Expert Registrations: 22% of runners

Pro Registrations: 7% of runners

We are capping the race at 500 entries, we encourage to sign up right away.

Bibs / Timing Chips
Cirque Series will utilize Competitive timing to time the event with a disposable chip placed on the back of your bib. Please do not fold, crush or remove the chip from the bib. You may dispose of the chip/bib after the race is over.

Rules / Guidelines
Please help us preserve the beauty of our mountains and assist in maintaining an enjoyable, safe event for everyone involved.

Please respect private property near the trails. Do not trespass. 
No littering: Participants are encouraged to carry water and food during the event. 
Please dispose of all waste and recyclables in the proper containers. 
Please be respectful of all Forest Service officials. 
Do not impede another runner. 
Leave no trace: Pack-in pack-out.

We will provide hydration at two aid stations on course, summit water station & finish line hydration.

LODGING - Mt Baldy Lodging 

Contact:

Race Director: steve@cirqueseries.com

Founder: julian@cirqueseries.com