Nestled at the foot of the Carson Range of the Sierra Nevada, Carson Valley was home to the inventor of the Ferris Wheel, George Washington Gale Ferris. We honor that legacy of ingenuity and grit with a mix of single-track trails, OHV trails, and minimal concrete over three distances that …
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Nestled at the foot of the Carson Range of the Sierra Nevada, Carson Valley was home to the inventor of the Ferris Wheel, George Washington Gale Ferris. We honor that legacy of ingenuity and grit with a mix of single-track trails, OHV trails, and minimal concrete over three distances that traverse the foothills of eastern Carson Valley. Whether you are an experienced runner seeking a challenge in the off-season or a less experienced runner who is ready to explore greater distances at an entry level, Ferris Fifty is an opportunity to test your mind and body while taking in the captivating views of Job’s Peak and the Carson Valley.
All distances will start in the arena at the Douglas County Fairgrounds and end in a festival atmosphere at TJ’s Corral outside of the host hotel of Carson Valley Inn. Shuttles will be provided from the Carson Valley Inn for the convenience of runners.
Pacers are generally not allowed for this course. Please contact the race director through the Ferris Fifty website for exceptions. Trekking poles are allowed. Crews are allowed one vehicle per runner.
Are you a crew member interested in running? The 15k course offers a glimpse into your runner’s breathtaking experience in the Carson Valley and leads you straight to the TJ’s Corral finish line well ahead of the runner you have come to cheer on!
Course Info
Participants can expect a mix of dirt, gravel, sand, and pavement over each route. The course covers active OHV and mountain bike trails and will be patrolled throughout the race day to ensure your safety. There should be minimal contact with wildlife but be aware that there are wild horses, coyotes, and other high desert animals in the area.
Typically weather in late fall in northern Nevada includes daily highs averaging in the 50-60’s and dropping into the high 30’s at night, with the possibility of rain or snow. Sunrise is at 6:34 am and sunset is at 4:51 pm. Bag drops will be available for the 50M and 50k distances to allow for preparation for weather conditions. Drop bags will be collected at packet pick up and tagged with runner information.
Safety patrols via OHV and mountain bike will cover the entirety of the course to ensure all participants have a safe event. Cutoff times by aid station will be posted prior to the event. Headlamps will be required for 50M/50k runners after 4 pm and aid station volunteers will conduct headlamp checks beginning at Aid Station #5 for the 50M; headlamp checks will be based on course time for the 50k. It is required that 50M and 50k runners begin the race with a light source as the start time is prior to sunrise.
Finish and Festival Area
Celebrate the finish of this incredible display of athletic dedication at TJ’s Corral. Music, food trucks, drinks, and vendor booths will be within view of the finish line so you can cheer your favorite runner(s) in.
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