Buffalo Run Trail Race

Why are our prices more expensive than they have historically been? The park has increased its participant and special-use permit fees significantly to help fund important initiatives like wildlife research, animal care, and the construction of their new visitor center. We think that’s a great thing — this park is a place we all love, and it’s important to support the work that keeps it thriving.

Every spring, trail runners from across the Mountain West and beyond gather on Antelope Island for the Buffalo Run. With sweeping views of the Great Salt Lake, rolling singletrack through desert grasslands, and herds of wild bison roaming the course, the Buffalo Run blends natural beauty, community, and adventure into one unforgettable endurance event.

Since its humble beginnings in 2006 with just 150 runners in the 25K and 50K, the event has grown into a multi-distance festival of trail running - now featuring 25K, 50K, and 50M races. Whether you’re toeing the line for your first trail race or gunning for a personal best 50-mile finish, the Buffalo Run delivers what you’re looking for.

*This event has historically had a 100 miler - this distance will be moved to the Fall Classic which will take place on Saturday October 10th, 2026.*

We want to share a critical update about the 2026 Buffalo Run and be transparent about what we’re monitoring behind the scenes.

Antelope Island experiences a seasonal emergence of no-see-ums (biting gnats) every spring (usually late April). When they hatch in large numbers, they form dense swarms, don’t respond to bug spray, and can make it extremely difficult to be outside without full coverage like head nets and heavy clothing - conditions that typically don't align with a satisfactory race experience.

Because we are currently facing a record heat wave on the Wasatch Front, these bugs could emerge a month early. As of Monday, March 23rd, 2026, they have still not hatched. We are cautiously optimistic.

As a result, we are considering all options - including event cancellation - if conditions deteriorate to a point where we cannot deliver a positive experience on the island (for runners, volunteers, and finish line vendors).

If we do cancel, we will offer full refunds or life time credits.