The Gulch Countdown is run as a series of 2.18-mile loops, with the first loop having a 32 minute cut-off. Those who finish ahead of the cutoff can use the remaining time for rest and aid. All finishers within the cut-off then start the next loop together, running it within 31 minutes. With each additional loop the cutoff is reduced by 1 min. After 12 loops – a marathon distance – loop times decrease by 30 seconds until only one runner remains – the Last Person Standing.