Yellowstone Gateway 30K
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Yellowstone Gateway 30K
The Yellowstone Gateway 30K is an off-road trail race of 30K (18.2 miles) that traverses trails, gravel roads, USFS dirt roads, and scree-covered jeep paths. The course gains about 2,609 feet and descends about 2,366 feet, with an upper out-and-back section through Emigrant Gulch and the remainder run point to point.
The route begins on rolling grasslands in the Paradise Valley foothills near the Yellowstone River, climbs steadily along Emigrant Creek through a steep gorge and past historic mining sites and Old Chico, reaches a high aid station with views of Emigrant Peak and the Snowy Block Mountains of the Western Beartooths, then returns by a long downhill to finish at Chico Hot Springs Resort.
There are three staffed aid stations on course supplying water, Tailwind Nutrition fuel drink, gels, and standard trail food. The race is cupless, so participants must carry their own bottle or hydration bladder; a trail running vest or waist pack is recommended. Cutoff policies allow an average pace equivalent to a fast hike and are adjusted for climbing and descending.
The upper course is very rocky and uneven; trail shoes are recommended and poles are optional. Water crossings are commonly ankle to calf deep and rocks can be slippery. Course markings include flags, cones, and paint, with volunteers at critical junctions. Park County Search and Rescue volunteers will be on the course to assist if needed.
The event includes post-race provisions at Chico Hot Springs, participant hats, competitive awards for overall and age categories, and efforts to reduce waste through cupless operations and composting at the post-race picnic. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
