Turquoise Trail Ultra
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Event overview
The Turquoise Trail Ultra is a trail running event in Cedar Crest, New Mexico, on February 21, 2026. The start and finish are at the Gutierrez Canyon Open Space parking lot, 12216 NM-14, Cedar Crest. The race uses the historical Turquoise Trail area and takes place in varied weather, including rain, snow, or sunshine. The event will award finisher socks for 2026 instead of a medal.
Distances:
- 13k - 1 lap, about 1,023 ft gain
- 26k - 2 laps, about 2,046 ft gain
- 52k - 4 laps, about 4,092 ft gain
Pricing is listed in tiers: 13k ($70 | $85 | $95), 26k ($80 | $95 | $105), 52k ($90 | $105 | $115). Price increases occur on Dec 1 and Jan 1. Registration closes the night before the event.
Course and logistics
The course is roughly a 13k loop around Gutierrez Canyon Open Space. It features smooth single track, rock gardens, juniper trees, and about 1,000 feet of climbing per lap. There are two aid stations: the start/finish area and an on-course station at approximately 4.6 miles. Aid station supplies include water/Skratch, chips, cookies, bananas, vegetable soup or broth, and assorted salty and sweet snacks. Locally made burritos will be available at the finish.
Parking is at the trailhead and overflow at Mountain Christian Church about 0.25 miles north, with a sidewalk to the start. Parking at local businesses is not allowed. The event is cup-less; a reusable cup is available for purchase for $5 (cash or Venmo). A 10 hour course cutoff applies to all distances, with a 7.5 hour cutoff for lap 4 of the 52k. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
