Canyon De Chelly Ultra

Canyon De Chelly Ultra is held at Canyon De Chelly, Arizona, on October 10, 2026, with a 7:00 a.m. start. The single format is a 55K trail ultra (about 34 miles) run within the canyon in the Navajo Nation.

A 55K is a little longer than a standard 50K, and a canyon course means sandy washes and steep climbs out of the canyon rather than smooth trails, so it is best approached as a challenging first ultra or a memorable step for an experienced 50K runner. The early start takes advantage of cooler morning hours in the desert. Prepare with a 16-week block that includes long runs of 22 to 26 miles, some of them on sand or soft surfaces if you can find them, and regular power-hiking on steep grades. Practice running with a hydration pack, since desert conditions dehydrate you faster than you expect, and plan sun protection for the exposed sections. The event is also a chance to run in a culturally significant landscape, so approach it with respect for the place and its people.