Cloudcroft Ultra 53K
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Cloudcroft Ultra 53K overview
The Cloudcroft Ultra takes place August 15, 2026, at the Pavilion in Zenith Park, Cloudcroft, New Mexico, located in the Sacramento Mountains at about 8,600 feet elevation. The event offers multiple trail distances on the historic Rim Trail T105.
- 53K (with lollipop loop at the turnaround)
- 9.5 mile out-and-back
- 4.75 mile out-and-back
- 1 mile Kid's Dash for ages 13 and under
Most courses are out-and-back on the Rim Trail, a shaded single-track and historic rail-bed that passes stands of fir, pine and quaking aspen and provides views of the Tularosa Basin more than 4,000 feet below. The 53K adds extra climbing and scenery near the summit portion. The Kid's Dash loops around Zenith Park.
For the 53K there are six aid stations stocked with water, sport drink, gels and snacks. Drop bags are permitted at two locations near mile ~13 and mile ~20. The 9.5 mile course has two aid stations. Crew access for the 53K is allowed at Aid 1/6 (near mile marker 1 on Sunspot Hwy, Rim Trail Parking #2) and Aid 3/4 (access via Alamo Peak Road after mile marker 6; one lane, drive slowly).
Practical details include chip timing for all distances, custom finisher shirts and medals for finishers, non refundable entries, and guaranteed shirt sizes for early registrants. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
