Broken Arrow Skyrace

Event Overview

The Broken Arrow Skyrace is a four-day mountain running event held at the Palisades Tahoe ski resort near Lake Tahoe, California. It is a multi-distance event inspired by classic European Skyraces.

Distances

The event features nine primary running distances and a kids race.

• 46K: A signature distance with over 10,000 feet of climbing, most of the course is above the tree line.
• 23K: Part of the World Mountain Running Association World Cup, with over 5,000 feet of climbing.
• 18K: A course with nearly 3,800 feet of climbing.
• 11K: A shorter course with approximately 1,840 feet of vertical gain, described as an introductory distance.
• The Ascent (Vertical K): A short, steep climb gaining over 3,100 feet in about 3 miles to the summit of Washeshu Peak. It includes a hand line and a ladder.
• Iron Face Challenge: A unique event combining uphill running, downhill running, and scrambling on a via ferrata (a protected climbing route with steel cables).
• Triple Crown: A multi-day challenge comprising the Ascent, 46K, and 23K.
• Iron Crown: A multi-day challenge comprising the Iron Face Challenge, 23K, and 46K.
• Kids Run: A short, non-timed event for children aged 10 and under.

Course & Terrain

Courses are characterized by steep, technical, off-trail terrain, high altitude, and significant vertical gain. Features include rock slabs, scree, exposed ridges, potential snow slopes, and the "Stairway to Heaven" ladder. Most terrain is above the tree line, offering views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains.

Event Details & Policies

The event offers a prize purse for elite runners in the Ascent, 23K, and 46K distances. It includes on-site registration with surcharges for some distances. Registration closes on June 10, 2026. The race has a cancellation and partial credit policy. Dogs, strollers, and similar equipment are not permitted on the course. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Events nearby