Palo Duro Trail Run
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Palo Duro Trail Run 2026
The Palo Duro Trail Run is the 41st annual trail race held in Palo Duro Canyon State Park on Saturday, October 17, 2026. The event offers multiple distances and uses a looped course that returns to the start and finish area so runners can meet their crew.
Distances:
- 50 Mile
- 50K
- 25K
The course covers a variety of trail surfaces, including rolling singletrack, sand, and rock, and features short steep and technical ascents and descents. Mid October temperatures can vary widely, from freezing at the start to over 100 degrees later in the day. The 2026 edition is noted as an EAST year.
Support and logistics are detailed in advance. There are four fully stocked aid stations with volunteers offering water, electrolyte drink, soda, salty and sweet foods, and options to refill bladders and bottles. The race is cupless: participants must carry their own hydration system and a packable cup if they want to use certain aid station items.
Pacers are permitted for the 50 Mile race only on the final lap, must remain on foot, and must register and pick up a pacer bib at packet pickup. Packet pickup occurs on October 15 and October 16 at local locations in Amarillo and Canyon, with an additional pickup at the start area on race day. Slot availability is limited. Finishers receive event-specific items: 50K and 50 Mile finishers receive a Palo Duro belt buckle, and 25K finishers receive a Palo Duro hat. A hot post race meal is provided to registered participants. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
