ET Full Moon race returns to Rachel

For nearly two decades, runners have traded daylight for moonlight on one of Nevada’s most remote highways. Crowds will again gather this weekend beneath the stars to race through the high desert along the Extraterrestrial Highway.

The tradition continues Saturday night, Aug. 1, as Calico Racing hosts the latest running of its ET Full Moon Race near Rachel, bringing participants from across the country to Lincoln County for one of the state’s most unique endurance events.

Founded in 2007 by Calico Racing’s Joyce Forier, the race has grown into one of Southern Nevada’s signature destination races, attracting runners drawn by the combination of dark desert skies, the mystique of Area 51 and the challenge of competing through the night.

This year’s event features five distances: a 5K, a 10K, a half marathon, a marathon and an 51K ultramarathon, with all races starting and finishing near the Alien Cowpoke in Rachel. Marathon and 51K runners begin at midnight, followed by the half marathon, 10K and 5K in staggered starts shortly afterward.

Participants are required to wear 360-degree reflective vests and carry a headlamp or flashlight throughout the course. The safety measure creates a memorable sight as hundreds of moving lights stretch across State Route 375 beneath a full moon.

Organizers have announced several updates for this year’s race, including newly designed courses, a return to an August full moon schedule, water and sports drink stations at every aid station, increased traffic control and additional law enforcement presence to improve runner safety.

The event has earned national recognition over the years. It was featured in Runner’s World shortly after its debut, received multiple honors for its finisher medals from Marathon & Beyond, and has been recognized among the nation’s most unique marathon experiences.

Last year’s race demonstrated the event’s broad appeal. Finishers traveled from across the United States, including Nevada, California, Florida, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Washington, Illinois, Arizona, Utah and numerous other states. International runners also made the trip from Canada and Russia. Each year participants have ranged in age from youth runners in the 5K to competitors in their 70s.

While the runners take center stage, organizers say the event is also an experience for spectators. Family and friends are welcome to attend, and volunteers are encouraged to assist at aid stations and along the course. Volunteer hours can be applied toward credit for future Calico Racing events.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, every finisher receives a commemorative medal. Awards will be presented to overall and age-group winners, and the tradition of recognizing the best alien-themed costume continues.

With its combination of endurance, dark skies, desert scenery and a touch of extraterrestrial fun, the ET Full Moon Race has become a fixture on Lincoln County’s summer calendar and continues to introduce visitors from around the world to one of Nevada’s most recognizable stretches of highway.

Registration remains available through race weekend, with packet pickup scheduled Saturday evening at the start/finish area near the Alien Cowpoke in Rachel. Additional race information, schedules and registration details are available through Calico Racing at https://www.calicoracing.com/events/et-full-moon/.