Enchanted Forest Trail Races

JUL
25
2026
Explore the trails of Carson National Forest at the Enchanted Forest races in Red River, New Mexico. Choose from a rugged marathon, a heavy half, or the steep Face Challenge. After your run, enjoy a festive finish with live music, local food, and craft brews.
Sat 25 Jul 2026
26 miles 15 miles 7 miles

Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.

Event Overview

The Enchanted Forest Trail Races take place on July 25, 2026, in Red River, New Mexico. The event features three trail running distances. The start and finish area for all races is Brandenburg Park in downtown Red River.

Race Distances

Participants can choose from three courses:

  • The Face Challenge: Approximately 7 miles with about 2,400 feet of climbing.
  • Heavy Half Marathon: 14.7 miles with about 2,400 feet of climbing.
  • Trail Marathon: 26 miles with about 5,000 feet of climbing.

Course Details

The routes travel through the Carson National Forest and the Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area. Courses use a mix of pavement, dirt roads, double track, and singletrack trails. The marathon and The Face Challenge include a steep, off-trail ascent up a ski slope known as "The Face." An alternate marathon route may be used due to trail conditions.

Event Logistics

Packet pickup is available the day before the race and on race morning. Aid stations provide water, sports gels, potato chips, Skittles, and electrolyte drink; no cups are provided. The final cutoff time is 4:30 PM. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are allowed at the start/finish and aid stations but not on the course.

Post-Race & Amenities

After the race, there is a gathering with live music, local food, and craft beer. A free kids' race is also held. All finishers receive a memento. Awards are given to the top three male and female finishers in standard age groups. The average July weather in Red River has lows around 42°F and highs around 75°F, with possible afternoon storms. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

26 mi
Trail Marathon
15 mi
Heavy Half Marathon
7 mi
The Face Challenge