Palo Duro Trail Run
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Palo Duro Trail Run
The Palo Duro Trail Run is scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2026 at Palo Duro Canyon State Park. The event is the 41st annual running of this race and will be held in an EAST year. It began as a road race and now is run on trails with three distance options.
- 50 miles
- 50K
- 25K
The course is looped and combines rolling singletrack, sand, and rock, with short steep and technical ascents and descents. Mid October conditions can vary widely, with temperatures reported from freezing early to over 100 degrees later in the day. The looped format returns runners to the start/finish area for crew access; tents and canopies for crews are allowed only in a designated start/finish area. Outside support on course is not permitted.
There are four fully stocked aid stations staffed by volunteers. Aid offerings include water, soda, pickle juice, Hyperlyte Liquid Performance, salty and sweet foods such as candy, chips, boiled salted potatoes, and PB&J sandwiches. The race is cupless: participants must carry their own hydration system. Organizers will refill bladders and bottles but will not provide cups; a packable cup is recommended for items like coke or pickle juice.
Pacers are permitted for the 50 mile distance only on the final lap. Only one on foot pacer is allowed per runner and pacers must register, sign a waiver, and pick up a pacer bib. Pacers must start and finish at the designated drop bag area and must remain on foot.
Packet pickup occurs the two days before the race at local pickup locations and on race day at the start/finish area near the Mack Dick Pavilion. Registration includes a long sleeve technical shirt and a hot post race meal. Entry fees vary by distance and slots are limited. The official course map is being revised and will be published when finalized. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
