Black Canyon Ultras
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Black Canyon Ultras - Spring Valley to New River, AZ
The Black Canyon Ultras are point to point trail races held along the Black Canyon National Recreation Trail through the Sonoran Desert. The event offers two distances and uses single track, jeep roads, and segments of an old stagecoach route. The route crosses the Agua Fria river several times and passes through ranch properties with gates that must be closed behind runners.
- 100K : 62.2 miles, time limit 20 hours
- 50K : 32.2 miles, time limit 11 hours
The 100K covers approximately 55 miles of the Black Canyon Trail between Mayer High School and the Emery Henderson Trailhead and has an estimated +5,219 feet elevation gain and -7,337 feet elevation loss. The 50K shows +2,004 feet gain and -4,005 feet loss. Aid stations are stocked every 4.5 to 9 miles; aid includes water, electrolyte drink, GU Roctane and gels, Gatorade, salt tabs, fruit, snacks, and hot options at main stations. Drop bags and crew access are available at specified aid stations; pacers are permitted only for the 100K with restrictions.
The 100K serves as a Western States qualifier with a sub 17 hour requirement for lottery eligibility and also offered Golden Ticket qualifiers in 2026. The race operates a cupless aid model, enforces course markers and cutoffs, and provides shuttles between start and designated parking areas. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
