La Jornada de Las Quebradas
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La Jornada de Las Quebradas 53K
La Jornada de Las Quebradas is a trail ultramarathon listed with a race length of 32 miles and an elevation gain of 3300'. The course begins on single and double track that runs through arroyos and limestone outcrops for the first 7.5 miles, with some short rocky and technical sections. At mile 7.5 runners reach the Byway aid station and follow a dirt road and 4WD track toward a marked junction near mile 11 where a counterclockwise loop begins.
The loop includes an arroyo crossing, a short runnable stretch with sandstone outcrops, and a water-only aid station possibility before reaching the Johnson Hill aid station at mile 17. A short, steep, sandy climb follows to a ridge with wide desert basin views; around mile 21 the course returns toward the Byway aid station and the final 7.5 miles back to the start/finish area.
Course markings will use ribbons and confidence markers and are described as minimal but adequate; participants are advised to save the route on a phone or GPS if unfamiliar. Aid stations provide water and snacks; runners should carry any specialized drink mixes or gels they need. The start area is a small pullout off the Quebradas backcountry byway; the access road is generally drivable in most sedans though it has some washboard sections and parking may require carpooling from nearby pullouts or Escondida bridge park. Portable toilet service and public restrooms at Escondida Lake Picnic Area are noted.
Registration fee is $95 and includes an event shirt, free event photos, and a meal from the local food truck Cubish; shirt availability is guaranteed for registrations made before February 1. A portion of race profits supports Socorro High School cross-country and local trail maintenance. First-place finishers in each category receive a $50 REI gift card and a customized trophy. The organizer states that cutoffs will be strictly enforced for safety and that only partial refunds are available for cancellations due to extreme weather or public land closures occurring within the final week before the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
