18K Overview

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Please note that exact course changes slightly each year due to snow conditions. 

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The 18k is not a watered-down version of the 23k but a true, stand-alone challenge. For those who may have run the VK or 11k in the past, it is an opportunity to “level up.” With nearly 3,800 feet of climbing over a mere 11 miles, this will challenge even the heartiest of trail runners. And, while it is certainly easier than the 23k, the 18k does represent a significant jump in difficulty from the 11K, showcasing some of the most beautiful features of the 23k course: Red Dog Ridge, the Stairway to Heaven ladder, and the ripping downhill of the Western States trail.

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Course Specifics 
 

The new 18k will begin, like most distances, under the European arch in front of Coffeebar. It ascends an initial climb similar to that of the VK, at which point the course gains the prominent, exposed and stunningly beautiful Red Dog Ridge. Along the ridge, runners are treated to unique views of the emerald waters of Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America, if they can pull their eyes from the imposing and exposed ridge. From here the course tips even more vertically, with runners ascending the steep headwall of KT-22, made famous by the extreme skiers of Palisades Tahoe. 

 

After cresting KT, a mild downhill allows a brief recovery, after which runners begin the most sustained, exposed and highest portion of the course - the rocky ridge that leads to the Stairway to Heaven ladder and summit of Washeshu Peak at nearly 9,000 feet. At mile 4.9 runners will be treated to the Siberia Aid Station, staffed annually by our friends from the Nomadic Adventure Club.

 

After refueling, you can expect a strikingly fast downhill that stretches all the way down to the bottom of Shirley Canyon …. and then all the way back out to the second aid station, the Julia Millon Memorial Aid Station ("Julia's") at mile 7.6. From here, it is all downhill until you hit our yellow brick road finish line chute and #RingDasBell!

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The price for the 18k is $130.

 

Please note that you must be 16 years of age or older to run the 18k. We allow runners under 16 to participate but they must be approved by the race directors and have a parent accompany them. Each accompanying parent must also be registered for the 18k distance.

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Aid Stations

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At the Broken Arrow Skyrace, whether you finish first or last, YOU are a rockstar. This mantra is also true with how you are treated at our aid stations. We've partnered with some of best groups out there who understand that race day is YOUR time to shine. These partners routinely pull out all the stops to make your day a fantastic experience. We hope you will enjoy our best-in-class aid station service from the following groups: