A HISTORY OF TWISTED FORK:

In the heart of Park City, Utah, amidst the breathtaking splendor of the Central Wasatch, the Twisted Fork Race Festival has carved a unique and inspiring path in the world of ultra-trail running. Born from the visionary dreams of local community leader Canice Harte, the festival began with the inaugural Twisted Fork 64K in June 2018 as a celebration of the local landscape and the profound connections between runners and the trails they traverse.

The origin of the first race was rooted in Canice Harte’s love for two of his favorite runs: the iconic Great Western-Mormon Pioneer Loop and the Flying Dog Loop. These routes, with their historical significance, pastoral charm, sense of remoteness, and panoramic views, embody the essence of Park City's natural beauty. Merging these experiences into one grand run was too exciting not to share.

From its inception, the festival has been guided by a single principle: embrace a runner-centered approach. Harte drew inspiration from various races and events, incorporating elements like well-marked courses, high-quality aid stations, innovative race features, and standout branding all while ensuring that every detail, from ample water and ice at aid stations to unique race-within-the-race competitions reminiscent of Tour de France challenges, was designed to maximize enjoyment and performance.

As ideas for a festival format have emerged in recent years, Twisted Fork has embraced a broader vision of expanding its offerings and enhancing the overall experience. Beginning in 2025, for example, 2 new race distances will be introduced alongside the classic 64k: these include a 30K, and 15K to accommodate a wider range of runners and showcase a wider swath of Park City trails. Additionally, the finish area will be transformed into a more vibrant space with live music, vendors, lawn games, and an overall ambiance encouraging runners and their friends and family to celebrate all day.

We’d be remiss not to acknowledge that Park City’s charm has been integral to the festival’s success. With its exceptional infrastructure, diverse dining and lodging options, abundant extracurricular activities, and proximity to an international airport, Park City is a haven for runners and spectators alike. Furthermore, we’ve been fortunate to have the unwavering generosity and support of the local community year after year. Twisted Fork is just as much a testament to the collective enthusiasm and dedication of its volunteers and supporters within the trail running ranks here. The sense of community is palpable, as the love and care poured into every aspect of the event enhance the experience for all involved. The race has become a source of pride for the locals, a true representation of the spirit and care of the Park City ultra community.

The Twisted Fork Race Festival is more than just a race; it is a celebration of community, passion, and the sheer joy of running. As it continues to grow, we hope it can remain an example of what can be achieved when a love for the sport and a commitment to excellence come together in harmony. In the stunning landscapes of Park City, the Twisted Fork Race Festival promises to remain a cherished tradition, welcoming runners from near and far to experience the spirit of the event and the magic of these mountains.

See you in June 2025!