Yellowstone Gateway 30K

Yellowstone Gateway 30K Overview

Yellowstone Gateway 30K runners will know why “Yellowstone is more Valuable than Gold”!

General Description

• Distance: Just over 18 miles.
• Elevation Change: Climbs 2,609 ft and descends 2,366 ft.
• Course Type: Off-road, featuring trails, gravel, and dirt paths.
• Starting Point: 2024 MICHELIN Guide awarded Sage Lodge trails.

Details

• Route: Begins on double track trails through rolling foothills.
• Historic Landmarks: Passes the Chico Cemetery, Yellowstone City gold settlement.
• Water Crossings: Expect wet feet when crossing Emigrant Creek.
• Finish Line: Ends at the renowned Chico Hot Springs Resort.

Packet Pick-Up

• Early Packet Pickup: September 18 at the Park County Environmental Council office, 3:30 to 6:30 PM.
• Race Day Pickup: September 20 from 7:30 AM to 8:45 AM at Sage Lodge.

Aid Stations

• Old Chico Aid Station: Located 3.8 miles from the start.
• Emigrant Gulch Aid Station: Located 7.0 miles from the start.
• St. Julian Turnaround: 10 miles, with a cutoff time of 12:45 PM.
• Chico Finish: Located at the end of the race at 18.2 miles.

Safety

• Hazards: Steep rocky slopes can cause falls.
• Water Depth: Emigrant Creek crossings are ankle to shin deep.
• Course Monitoring: Park County Search and Rescue Volunteers will be present.
• Awareness: Not a closed course: other recreational users may be present.

Sustainability Commitment

• Cupless Race: Bring your own hydration system.
• Waste Reduction: Happy Trash Can to manage composting post-race.

Course Markings

The course will be marked with flags, cones, and paint, with volunteers at crucial junctions.

Shoes and Terrain

• Terrain: Rocky and uneven, recommending trail shoes.
• Poles: Optional but can provide balance.
• Water Crossings: Depth is ankle to calf deep.
• Caution: Balance on rocks to stay dry.

Bear Safety

Carrying bear spray is optional, but be aware of some remote sections.

Parking and Shuttle Information

• Parking: Limited: use shuttle from Chico.
• Shuttle Times: Departs from Field of Dreams every 20 minutes before the race.

Drop Bag Transport

Bring a bag to drop at Sage Lodge: clearly mark it with your name and contact information.

Prizes

• All Participants: Receive a Yellowstone Gateway 30K hat.
• Awards: For top finishers and age group winners.
• Door Prizes: Randomly given at the finish line.

Support and Spectating

Spectators can view the race at various points but should avoid driving in the Gulch for safety.

Opting Out

Please inform a volunteer if you do not run after picking up your packet.

Post-Race

Enjoy a complimentary lunch and beer at Chico Hot Springs, along with swim access for participants and volunteers.

History

The area is rich in history, from indigenous peoples to gold prospecting. Community efforts helped protect this land from industrial mining.

More Information

For updates and further details, check the Yellowstone Gateway 30K Facebook page or contact the Race Director at bl2deyoung@gmail.com.