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The Black Canyon Ultras is a premier trail running event featuring a point-to-point 100K course along the historic Black Canyon National Recreation Trail in Arizona. It serves as a prestigious Western States 100 qualifier and Golden Ticket race, attracting top-tier ultrarunners from around the globe.
Course Highlights
The Black Canyon Ultras 100K follows the historic Black Canyon National Recreation Trail, a point-to-point journey through the heart of Arizona’s high desert. Starting at Mayer High School, runners traverse a diverse landscape of desert grasslands, saguaro forests, and rugged canyons. The course is primarily single-track trail, offering a net-downhill profile that is deceptively challenging due to its technical rocky sections and numerous creek crossings. With approximately 5,200 feet of elevation gain and over 7,300 feet of loss, the route provides a fast but punishing experience. Runners will encounter breathtaking views of the Bradshaw Mountains and the iconic Arizona desert flora, making every mile a visual feast. The final stretches lead into the Emery Henderson Trailhead, where the desert heat and rolling terrain test the endurance of even the most seasoned athletes.
Race Details
Organized by Aravaipa Running, the Black Canyon Ultras is a world-class event and a member of the World Trail Majors. The 100K distance is a highly coveted Western States 100 qualifier and a Golden Ticket race, where the top three male and female finishers earn automatic entry into the legendary Western States 100. The next race is scheduled for February 13-14, 2027, with the 100K starting in waves beginning at 07:00 MST on Saturday. Aid stations are well-spaced and stocked with standard ultra fare, and the race operates as a cupless event to minimize environmental impact. For those looking for a shorter but equally scenic challenge, a 50K option is held the following day. Participants can even take on the “Echo Challenge” by completing both distances over the weekend. Registration typically opens well in advance and often sells out quickly due to the event’s popularity and prestigious status.
Why Runners Love It
Runners are drawn to the Black Canyon Ultras for its perfect blend of competitive prestige and raw natural beauty. The community atmosphere fostered by Aravaipa Running creates an inclusive yet high-energy environment, where elites and mid-packers alike share the trails. The historic significance of the Black Canyon Trail, originally a livestock drive path, adds a layer of depth to the experience. The race-weekend vibe is infectious, with a pre-race expo and local support that makes every participant feel like part of something special. Tips for first-timers include practicing on technical, rocky terrain and preparing for significant temperature swings between the cool morning start and the sun-drenched desert afternoon. Whether you’re chasing a Golden Ticket or simply seeking to test your limits against the desert, this race offers an unforgettable journey. Ready to take on the desert? Register now at the official website: https://www.aravaiparunning.com/blackcanyon/.
At a Glance
- Location: Mayer, Arizona — United States
- Next Date: 2027-02-13
- Distances: 100K, 50K
- Start Time: 07:00
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.aravaiparunning.com/blackcanyon/
The Black Canyon Ultras is a premier trail running event featuring a point-to-point 100K course along the historic Black Canyon National Recreation Trail in Arizona. It serves as a prestigious Western States 100 qualifier and Golden Ticket race, attracting top-tier ultrarunners from around the globe.
Course Highlights
The Black Canyon Ultras 100K follows the historic Black Canyon National Recreation Trail, a point-to-point journey through the heart of Arizona’s high desert. Starting at Mayer High School, runners traverse a diverse landscape of desert grasslands, saguaro forests, and rugged canyons. The course is primarily single-track trail, offering a net-downhill profile that is deceptively challenging due to its technical rocky sections and numerous creek crossings. With approximately 5,200 feet of elevation gain and over 7,300 feet of loss, the route provides a fast but punishing experience. Runners will encounter breathtaking views of the Bradshaw Mountains and the iconic Arizona desert flora, making every mile a visual feast. The final stretches lead into the Emery Henderson Trailhead, where the desert heat and rolling terrain test the endurance of even the most seasoned athletes.
Race Details
Organized by Aravaipa Running, the Black Canyon Ultras is a world-class event and a member of the World Trail Majors. The 100K distance is a highly coveted Western States 100 qualifier and a Golden Ticket race, where the top three male and female finishers earn automatic entry into the legendary Western States 100. The next race is scheduled for February 13-14, 2027, with the 100K starting in waves beginning at 07:00 MST on Saturday. Aid stations are well-spaced and stocked with standard ultra fare, and the race operates as a cupless event to minimize environmental impact. For those looking for a shorter but equally scenic challenge, a 50K option is held the following day. Participants can even take on the “Echo Challenge” by completing both distances over the weekend. Registration typically opens well in advance and often sells out quickly due to the event’s popularity and prestigious status.
Why Runners Love It
Runners are drawn to the Black Canyon Ultras for its perfect blend of competitive prestige and raw natural beauty. The community atmosphere fostered by Aravaipa Running creates an inclusive yet high-energy environment, where elites and mid-packers alike share the trails. The historic significance of the Black Canyon Trail, originally a livestock drive path, adds a layer of depth to the experience. The race-weekend vibe is infectious, with a pre-race expo and local support that makes every participant feel like part of something special. Tips for first-timers include practicing on technical, rocky terrain and preparing for significant temperature swings between the cool morning start and the sun-drenched desert afternoon. Whether you’re chasing a Golden Ticket or simply seeking to test your limits against the desert, this race offers an unforgettable journey. Ready to take on the desert? Register now at the official website: https://www.aravaiparunning.com/blackcanyon/.
At a Glance
- Location: Mayer, Arizona — United States
- Next Date: 2027-02-13
- Distances: 100K, 50K
- Start Time: 07:00
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.aravaiparunning.com/blackcanyon/