Photography

The view from the trail, in frames. Trailhead’s Photography section gathers the best visual storytelling in trail and ultrarunning — race-day galleries, landscape essays, athlete portraits, behind-the-lens interviews with the sport’s leading photographers, and the iconic images that define a season. From dawn starts at Western States to alpine finish lines in the Alps, this is trail running in pictures. Brought to you by UltraSignup, the world’s leading trail running registration platform.

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Amazing Images from the 2026 Western States 100

Check out this selection of Peter Maksimow's images from the 2026 Western States 100.

UltraSignup

June 30, 2026

Dirt Circus Tempe: Photography & Reflection

Trail running is a unique sport because of the people within the trail community. At the heart of the community are the local races, the race directors, and the runners. Dirt Circus is a celebration of the trail running community and Dirt Circus Tempe is always a really fun and soul-satisfying experience. Below you will find…

UltraSignup

November 5, 2025

Through the Lens: A Gritty Look Behind the Scenes of Big Dog’s Backyard Ultra

Step inside Big Dog’s Backyard Ultra with photographer Jacob Zocherman, who captures the grit, camaraderie, and sleepless beauty of the world’s most relentless endurance event. A behind-the-scenes look at what it means to run, crew, and endure together.

UltraSignup

October 31, 2025

Through the Lens: 10 Favorite Captures from a First-Time WSER Photographer

Ever wonder what it’s like to have a media pass at Western States 100? Morgan, UltraSignup’s Partnership Success Manager, took on the challenge for the first time to capture the grit, emotion, and chaos of the iconic race. Here are his top 10 favorite shots and what he learned along the way.

UltraSignup

July 15, 2025

10 Unforgettable Finish Line Memories from 2024

Mike McMonagle (@shitinthewoods) captures the heart-pounding, mud-caked moments of 2024’s biggest races. Check out his top 10 finish line shots with behind-the-scenes stories!

Mike McMonagle

January 13, 2025

Dirt Circus Phoenix in 10 Photos

This April the Phoenix community came together for a fun run around Papago Park, gear demos, food, prizes, and to meet and mingle with the local race directors. These 10 photos captured the Dirt Circus magic.

Shelby Farrell

September 17, 2024