Black Canyon Ultras
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Event overview
The Black Canyon Ultras take place February 14-15, 2026, on the Black Canyon National Recreation Trail in central Arizona. The event features point-to-point trail ultramarathons with the following distances:
- 100K (62.2 miles)
- 50K (32.2 miles)
The 100K serves as a Western States 100 qualifier; completing the full 100K within 17 hours is required to be eligible for the lottery. The race is part of the World Trail Majors collection. Entry limits are set at 1200 runners for each distance. Time limits on course are 20 hours for the 100K and 11 hours for the 50K.
Course, logistics and support
Both courses begin near Mayer High School and follow a mixture of singletrack, jeep roads, and segments of an old stagecoach route through the Sonoran Desert. The 100K covers a 55-mile section of the Black Canyon Trail between Mayer and the Emery Henderson Trailhead near New River; the 50K finishes at Deep Canyon Ranch. The route includes multiple creek and river crossings, several gates, and significant technical climbing and descending in the later miles.
Aid stations are provided roughly every 4.5-9 miles. The 100K has nine aid stations and the 50K has six; aid stations stock GU Roctane and energy gels, Gatorade, salt tabs, water, fruit, snacks, and hot items at main stations. Drop bags are allowed at designated aid stations for each distance. Pacers are permitted on the 100K starting at Deep Canyon Ranch; pacers are not permitted on the 50K. Medical teams are stationed at major aid stations and along the course. The event operates as a cupless race; runners must carry their own cup or hydration system. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.