Santa Barbara Tough Enough

Santa Barbara Tough Enough is a 59-mile relay mostly along the Transverse Range ridgeline, starting at Toro Canyon (Montecito) and finishing at Nojoqui Falls (near Solvang). The course mixes paved roads, one leg of technical single-track, and a decent chunk of fire road. Newcomers should be prepared for variable terrain, open traffic sections, and relay strategy. ('Variable terrain' means you're either going uphill or down.) Self-supported, and mutual support expected and encouraged. The strong community spirit make it what many regard as one of the finest relay experiences in human history. Or at least, one of the pretty fun relay experiences in human history.

Teams of five (or fewer), running (typically) two legs each. It is open as a solo ultra, but not recommended for first-timers. Limited to 75 teams. When we're lucky with weather, which we often are, we think it's as beautiful course as any in the world.

Course Description

The course is divided into 10 named legs, each with distinct character:

Leg 1 (6.4 miles) – Starts just inside Toro Canyon Park and climbs steady on East Valley Road to San Ysidro Rd and Mountain Drive before a final push to the Cold Spring Trailhead. Expect rolling hills and a net climb for an energetic first leg.

Leg 2 (~3 mi / ~5 km) – A narrow, trail-only section up the West Fork of Cold Spring. This leg requires good balance and comfort with exposure; it climbs through canyon terrain to Gibraltar Rd near the Rattlesnake connector.

Leg 3 (~4 miles) – A steep climb from Gibraltar up toward La Cumbre Peak, finishing near the upper end of Camino Cielo with big elevation gain and expansive views.

Leg 4 (9.25 miles) – A mostly downhill run along Camino Cielo toward Highway 154 with significant descent; take caution on open road sections.

Leg 5 (4.75 miles) – Begins on Stagecoach Rd before linking back to W Camino Cielo via Kinevan for a rolling, more intimate section of trail.

Leg 6 (9.25 miles) – Starts with a brief descent followed by a long climb up Camino Cielo with mixed terrain and variable surface quality. Crew driving options depend on road and gate access.

Leg 7 (6 miles) – Continues on Camino Cielo and down to the Refugio Rd intersection, with scenic sections and a long descent into greener terrain.

Leg 8 (6.1 miles) – A downhill segment on Refugio Road leading to the Santa Ynez River bridge handoff point. Technical and loose in spots.

Leg 9 (6.75 miles) – Runs on paved shoulders and local roads through Solvang area toward golf course landmarks and a gentle overall profile.

Leg 10 (3.75 miles) – A short final push from Alisal Road to the Nojoqui Falls Park entrance with some climbing before a celebratory finish.

Each leg has its own character and demands — from steep climbs and technical singletrack to open roads and long descents.

Aid Stations & Support

his race is self-supported:

• Teams are responsible for their own aid, food, and hydration.
• Help other runners in need when safe to do so — that’s part of the event philosophy.
• Open traffic and unmarked trails mean runners must be aware of surroundings and obey all traffic laws.

Runner Experience

Expect camaraderie unique to small-community relays: cheering teammates at handoffs, shared efforts through remote mountain roads, and a blend of technical and runnable terrain. The course traverses historic routes, offers ocean and canyon views, and invites both strategic pacing and fun competition.

After the finish, relax with teammates and supporters for refreshments, pizza, and laughs at Nojoqui Falls Park. All proceeds go to charity, and race organizers personally handle insurance, swag, food, and after-party logistics.

Registration

While solo and team registration is free, there is a $50 donation collected during registration for each participant. 100% of proceeds benefit Direct Relief.

Event's current local time: 5:57 PM PT