Black Canyon Ultras
The Black Canyon Ultras showcase breathtaking point-to-point 100K and 50K courses along the world-renowned Black Canyon National Recreation Trail. Winding through the heart of the Sonoran Desert, these iconic races offer sweeping views, fast desert singletrack, and a true taste of Arizona's rugged beauty.
This classic event draws runners from around the world to experience one of the premier trail ultramarathons in the Southwest. Whether you're chasing a golden ticket or your next big challenge, the Black Canyon Ultras deliver an unforgettable journey through the desert.
Black Canyon is proud to be a Gran Canaria World Trail Majors Event.
Gran Canaria World Trail Majors brings together some of the best trail / ultra races in the world, each with their own identity, diversity, respect, and personality. A collection of “bucket list” races for both amateur and professional runners who want to experience racing like it should be. Each time a unique experience.
The 2025 Black Canyon 100K is a 2026 Western States 100 qualifier. You must complete the entire 100K distance under 17 hours in order to be eligible for the lottery.
See WSER Qualifying Races for more information
The top three (3) female and top three (3) male finishers* in the 2025 Black Canyon Ultras 100K will automatically qualify for entry into the 2025 Western States 100 event.
*See WSER Golden Ticket Races for more information & full details
Event Location
Start
Mayer High School
17300 E Mule Deer Dr
Spring Valley, AZ 86333
100K Finish
Emery Henderson Trailhead
43376 N New River Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85087
50K Finish
Deep Canyon Ranch
18181 E Deep Canyon Rd
Black Canyon City, AZ 85324
Event Timeline
100K | Saturday, February 14, 2026Wave 1 - 7:00AM MST
Wave 2 - 7:30AM MST
Wave 3 - 8:00AM MST
50K | Sunday, February 15, 2026
Wave 1 - 7:00AM MST
Wave 2 - 7:30AM MST
Bib Pickup
Pre-Race Local PickupThursday, February 12
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Aravaipa HQ
Pre-Race Expo
Friday, February 13
11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Chilleen’s on 17
50K Bib Pickup
Saturday, February 14
12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Deep Canyon Ranch
100 K
$290 - Early Registration
$320 - Starting July 15
$340 - Starting December 15
50 K
$180 - Early Registration
$210 - Starting July 15
$240 - Starting December 15
Entry Limit
100K – 1200 runners
50K – 1200 runners
*Pricing does not include tax or fees charged by ultra-signup when registering online
Course Information
Distance | 62.2 Miles
Time Limit | 20 Hours
Trail System | Black Canyon National Recreation Trail
Total Estimated Elevation Gain | +5,219 feet
Total Estimated Elevation Loss | -7,337 feet
Max Elevation | 4,199' feet
Min Elevation | 1,737 feet
As part of the Black Canyon Ultras, runners will tackle a 55-mile section of this trail, commencing at Mayer High School in Spring Valley and finishing at the Emery Henderson Trailhead near New River. Along the route, participants will traverse Black Canyon and the Agua Fria river multiple times.
The 100K course is point to point on the non-motorized Black Canyon Trail (a National Recreation Trail) featuring a mixture of single track trail, jeep roads, and pieces of an old stagecoach route. The race begins with three miles of paved and dirt roads from Spring Valley, transitioning to the Black Canyon Trail (BCT) single track via Antelope Creek Road. From there, you’ll stay on the BCT.
The trail alternates between single track and jeep road—watch for junctions and follow the course markings carefully. The route generally heads south but includes plenty of winding sections. There is a short out-and-back segment to the Black Canyon City trailhead and aid station. Take a left to reach the aid station, turn around, and stay left again to continue southbound on the BCT. Expect several creek crossings, the largest at Mile 34. Depending on rainfall, crossings may be dry or have water. If water is present, an alternate rock-hopping route is marked to avoid wet shoes.
Don’t let the elevation profile fool you! The first 20 miles are fun, fast, and downhill, but many runners go out too hard and struggle later. Save energy for the final stretch after the Black Canyon City aid station.
100K runners will face most of the climbing, steep descents, and rocky, technical terrain in the final miles. It’s tougher than it looks on paper so plan accordingly!
Key Checkpoints:
The course briefly diverts from the Black Canyon Trail at three checkpoints. Follow the course markings carefully:
Bumble Bee Ranch
Runners will leave the trail to enter the Bumble Bee Ranch aid station and rejoin it through the ranch.
Deep Canyon Ranch
The second diversion leads runners into Deep Canyon Ranch. Follow the markings through the ranch to reconnect with the BCT on Kay Mine Road.
Black Canyon City Out-and Back
100K runners must complete the out-and-back section at the Black Canyon City aid station. Do not skip this crucial checkpoint.
Race Strategy
While the course is net downhill, it’s far from flat or easy— especially in the second half. The first half is relatively flat and downhill, making it tempting to go out too fast. Pace yourself. Between miles 28 and 45, you’ll cross the Black Canyon multiple times. The course includes major climbs and technical descents. Save your energy for these tougher sections, as the second half is significantly more demanding.
Nine aid stations spaced 4.5-9 miles including water, electrolyte drink, sweet snacks, salty snacks, and fruit.
Hydration and Nutrition:
- GU Energy will provide GU Roctane and a variety of GU Energy Gels at all aid stations.
- Gatorade and salt tabs will also be available.
Food Options:
- Fruit, sweet snacks, salty snacks, chips, and soda.
- Potatoes, bean burritos, PB&J, and soup.
- Additional meals, including sandwiches, will be available at main aid stations.
We strive to accommodate all dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegan options. However, if you have specific nutrition or hydration requirements, we encourage you to supplement using drop bags at the following locations: Bumble Bee, Deep Canyon Ranch, and Table Mesa.
THANK YOUR VOLUNTEERS
These trail runs wouldn’t be possible without our incredible volunteer team. Remember to take a moment to show your gratitude and thank them for supporting your race!
| AID STATION | SEGMENT | MILE | CREW | DROP BAGS |
| Antelope Mesa | 7.7 Miles | Mile 7.7 | No | No |
| Hidden Treasure | 5.2 Miles | Mile 12.9 | No | No |
| Bumble Bee Ranch | 6.5 Miles | Mile 19.4 | Yes | Yes |
| Gloriana Mine | 4.6 Miles | Mile 24.0 | No | No |
| Deep Canyon Ranch | 7.9 Miles | Mile 31.9 | Yes | Yes |
| Black Canyon City Trailhead | 5.3 Miles | Mile 37.2 | No | No |
| Cottonwood Gulch | 9.0 Miles | Mile 46.4 | No | No |
| Table Mesa | 4.7 Miles | Mile 51.1 | Yes | Yes |
| Doe Spring | 7.6 Miles | Mile 58.7 | No | No |
| Emery Henderson/Finish | 3.6 Miles | Mile 62.3 | Yes | Yes |
Crewing
Crews will be allowed at Bumble Bee Ranch Adventures, Deep Canyon Ranch, and Table Mesa for the 2025 race. We ask crews to please follow any signage and directions from aid station staff at each aid station and please not to block any public roadways. Crew access to Emery Henderson (100K finish line) is by shuttle bus only; there is no parking at the trailhead. Crews are asked to park in the southwest corner of the Anthem Outlets to board a 10 minute shuttle to Emery Henderson. These shuttles are free for crews and runners and begin at 1:00 pm Saturday. Directions to crew accessible remote aid stations are linked above.
Pacing
Pacers are permitted to start with their runner at the Deep Canyon Ranch aid station (mile 31.9). Pacers must be human and on foot. Only one pacer is allowed at a time, but pacers may switch out at the Table Mesa Aid Station (Mile 50.9). Pacers are only permitted for the 100K.
Pacer Rules
- All pacers must sign a waiver and wear a designated "pacer" bib while on course.
- All race rules apply to pacers.
- One pacer per runner on course.
- Pacers must be human and on foot—no pets or bicycles.
- Pacers cannot mule or carry gear or supplies for the runner.
Runner Tracking
Radio volunteers will be located at each aid station along the course. They will be recording runner bib numbers as they pass through aid stations and be in contact with the finish line throughout the day. If there is a problem somewhere along the trail, please report to the next aid station team.
Race Timing
All runners will be provided with a race bib that must be worn at all times during the race. You will be checked in and out of all aid stations on the course as well as
chip timed at the finish line. Please make sure bibs are secured to the front of your person for accurate timing and tracking on race day.
Drop bags for the 100K may be brought to the expo for early drop or to start line of your race. Drop bags for the 100K are permitted at the Bumble Bee Ranch, Deep Canyon Ranch, Table Mesa, and Emery Henderson (Finish Line) Aid Stations. Please label your drop bag with the appropriate aid station name, your bib number, last name, and place in the corresponding bin at the expo or at the start line. After you utilize your drop bag during the race, place it in the used drop bag zone for transport to your finish line. As we have vehicles to do so, we will bring drop bags from the used zone to the finish line of your race. All remaining bags will be brought to the finish at the closing of each aid station (please keep this in mind if you are finishing early on in the day).
100K Drop Bags
Bumble Bee Ranch | Mile 19.4
Deep Canyon Ranch | Mile 31.9
Table Mesa | Mile 50.9
Emery Henderson Finish | Mile 62.3
Wave
Start
Antelope Mesa
Hidden Treasure
Bumble Bee
Gloriana
Deep Canyon
Black Canyon City
Cottonwood
Table Mesa
Doe Springs
Finish
1
7:00 AM
9:15 AM
10:45 AM
12:45 PM
2:30 PM
5:00 PM
7:00 PM
10:00 PM
11:30 PM
2:00 AM
3:00 AM
2
7:30 AM
9:45 AM
11:15 AM
1:15 PM
3:00 PM
5:30 PM
7:30 PM
10:30 PM
12:00 PM
2:30 AM
3:30 AM
3
8:00 AM
10:15 AM
11:45 AM
1:45 PM
3:30 PM
6:00 PM
8:00 PM
11:00 PM
12:30 PM
3:00 AM
4:00 AM
Distance | 32.2 Miles
Time Limit | 12 Hours
Trail System | Black Canyon National Recreation Trail
Total Estimated Elevation Gain | +2,004 feet
Total Estimated Elevation Loss | -4,005 feet
Max Elevation | 4,199' feet
Min Elevation | 1,986 feet
The 50K course is point to point on the non-motorized Black Canyon Trail (a National Recreation Trail) featuring a mixture of single track trail, jeep roads, and pieces of an old stagecoach route. The race begins with three miles of paved and dirt roads from Spring Valley, transitioning to the Black Canyon Trail (BCT) single track via Antelope Creek Road. From there, you’ll stay on the BCT.
The trail alternates between single track and jeep road—watch for junctions and follow the course markings carefully. The route generally heads south but includes plenty of winding sections.
Don’t let the elevation profile fool you! The first 20 miles are fun, fast, and downhill, but many runners go out too hard and struggle later. Save energy for the final stretch after Bumble Bee Aid Station.
Note:
Runners will briefly leave the Black Canyon Trail to enter the Bumble Bee Ranch aid station and rejoin it through the ranch.
Six aid stations spaced 4.5-8 miles including water, electrolyte drink, sweet snacks, salty snacks, and fruit. Four crew access points and four drop bags are allowed on course.
Hydration and Nutrition:
- GU Energy will provide GU Roctane and a variety of GU Energy Gels at all aid stations.
- Gatorade and salt tabs will also be available.
Food Options:
- Fruit, sweet snacks, salty snacks, chips, and soda.
- Potatoes, bean burritos, PB&J, and soup.
- Additional meals, including sandwiches, will be available at main aid stations.
We strive to accommodate all dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegan options. However, if you have specific nutrition or hydration requirements, we encourage you to supplement using drop bags at the following locations: Bumble Bee, Deep Canyon Ranch, and Table Mesa.
THANK YOUR VOLUNTEERS
These trail runs wouldn’t be possible without our incredible volunteer team. Remember to take a moment to show your gratitude and thank them for supporting your race!
| AID STATION | SEGMENT | MILE | CREW | DROP BAGS |
| Antelope Mesa | 7.7 Miles | Mile 7.7 | No | No |
| Hidden Treasure | 5.2 Miles | Mile 12.9 | No | No |
| Bumble Bee Ranch | 6.5 Miles | Mile 19.4 | Yes | No |
| Gloriana Mine | 4.6 Miles | Mile 24.0 | No | No |
| Deep Canyon Ranch | 7.9 Miles | Mile 31.9 | Yes | Yes |
There are no Pacers in the 50KM
Crewing is only allowed at these aid stations along the course:
- Bumble Bee Ranch
- Deep Canyon Ranch (50K Finish)
Drop bags for the 50K may be brought to the expo for early drop or to start line of your race. Drop bags for the 50K are permitted at Deep Canyon (Finish Line). Please label your drop bag with the appropriate aid station name, your bib number, last name, and place in the corresponding bin at the expo or at the start line.
Wave
Start
Antelope Mesa
Hidden Treasure
Bumble Bee
Gloriana
1
7:00 AM
9:15 AM
10:45 AM
12:45 PM
2:30 PM
7:00 PM
2
7:15 AM
9:30 AM
11:00 AM
1:00 PM
2:45 PM
7:15 PM
Additional Race Information
- Stay on Course: This is a closed course. Follow the marked route in the race direction. Cutting or deviating may result in time penalties and up to disqualification. If you get off course, retrace to the last known marker in order to continue.
- Trail Etiquette: The course will be shared with the public. Alert others before passing. Uphill runners/hikers have the right of way. Stay in control while descending and respect other runners.
- No Pets: Pets are not allowed on the course.
- No Littering: Discarding any waste (including organic materials like peels or toilet paper) will result in disqualification.
- Trekking Poles: Permitted.
- Respect Others: Be courteous to volunteers, staff, officers, park rangers, trail users, and fellow participants.
- Drops and Distance Changes: 100K runners who stop at cannot switch distances to claim a finish. Dropping out results in a DNF.
- Cutoffs: Cutoffs are enforced by gun time for your wave. Example: 7:00 AM wave = 3:00 AM cutoff; 8:00 AM wave = 4:00 AM cutoff.
- Finish Times: Official finish times are based on gun time; buckles are awarded by chip time.
Parking / Start Area
The start of the 100K & 50K is located at Mayer High School. There is no parking at Mayer High School. Crews may drop off their runners but may not park in the school lot. Parking for crews will be in neighboring lots at the church and pharmacy lots just northwest of the school as you come into Spring Valley
Please note there is NO SHUTTLE back to the high school after the race. Free shuttles for crews and runners are provided from the finish line at Emery Henderson back to the Anthem Outlet Mall. All 100K runners are encouraged to park in the Southwest corner of the Anthem Outlets parking lot which is a 6 mile /
Hotel Accommodations Through Halo
With the help from Halo, a community-first hotel booking platform, we’ve selected a few different hotel options for you and your crew to choose from that are close and convenient for the race or in great area. Booking through us gives you access to discounted rates, swag bags and designated breakfast areas to connect with other Black Canyons guests. Experiences are better when you #staytogether
Camp at Deep Canyon Ranch
Participants who would like to camp close to the 50K finish line may choose to camp at Deep Canyon Ranch for the 2025 event! Participants can camp via tent, car or RV. Please note there are no hookups or dumping on property for RVs – dry camping only.
Camp at Bumble Bee Ranch
Beautiful Bumble Bee Ranch is hosting the Bumble Bee Aid station at mile 19.2! Bumble Bee Ranch will be one of our main crew access points. Campsites are available for $10 per night which include tent camping or dry vehicle camping. RV camping with electrical hookups are also available for $15 per night. Campers or participants who choose to stay on the property may also take advantage of the meals prepared and offered on site! For information on reservations, the ranch’s event menu, or more on the wild west activities provided visit their website by clicking the button below.
Creekside Lodge & Cabins
Relax before your race Creekside! Nestled right up against Big Bug Creek, Creekside Lodge & Cabins, in Mayer, is minutes away from the start of the Black Canyon Ultras and is a perfect lodging experience in heart of Arizona! For information on reservations and more check out their website.
Camping & Other Lodging
Other close lodging can be found off Happy Valley Road or in North Phoenix off I-17. The drive from Happy Valley Road & I-17 is approximately 15 minutes to the shuttle and 45 minutes to the race start. Camping is allowed in parts of Prescott National Forest, and dispersed camping on BLM land.
No camping is allowed at the finish line at Emery Henderson Trailhead.
Race Perks
- Race shirt (Men’s & Women’s styles)
- Scenic and challenging course on desert & mountain trails
- Well stocked aid stations every 4-9 miles
Awards
- Podium awards to top 3 men, & women
- All 100K finishers will receive a Black Canyon 100K buckle
- 50K finishers will receive custom 50K wooden medal by Aravaipa Artworx
We are looking for a team of volunteers to help on race weekend in many different aspects of the race. We have the following needs at this year’s event:
- Aid Station Volunteers – Show up on race day and assist runners with their food, hydration and gear needs. Help identify race drop bags for runners passing through and provide that all important encouragement and excitement.
- Course Marking – We’ll be laying out course markers on the days leading up to the race. Do you know the Black Canyon Trail well and want to help mark the course?
- Course Sweep – On race day we will need 2-3 runners per section of trail to run behind the last runner and clear the trail of any litter and course markings.
- LIVE Stream Media – Help film the action on race day and become part of the Steep Life Media Team.
Volunteer Perks
Depending on the level of involvement volunteers will receive varying amounts of Aravaipa Running race credits that can be used at any future race. Volunteers will also receive either a race shirt or other piece of Aravaipa Running Merchandise. Finally, you’ll be a part of one of the most exciting new trail races in Arizona!
Sign-up
Please use the iVolunteer sign-up link below to reserve your volunteer slot and provide contact information so we can reach you with important details prior to race day! Thank you and see you in February!
Join us for a preview of the course covering the full 100K distance over three runs. Runners have a chance to learn the course, fine-tune their pace, test gear, and connect with fellow runners.
- Run 1: Big Bug Trailhead to Bumblebee – November 16, 2025 | Distance: 18 miles
- Run 2: Bumblebee to Black Canyon City – December 14, 2025 | Distance: 20 miles
- Run 3: Black Canyon City to Emery/Finish – January 18, 2026 | Distance: 25 miles
INFO: What You Need to Know
- No Fee, Limited Aid: The Black Canyon Training Runs are a no-fee event designed to help you prepare for the Black Canyon Ultras in a group run setting. While we’ll provide limited aid (water and snacks approximately halfway), it’s crucial to plan to be self-sufficient in terms of navigation, personal safety, and hydration between stations.
- Navigation and Safety: The trails will not be marked prior to race day. Runners should prepare to navigate the course by the established trail markings installed by the BLM. Runners are also encouraged to download the GPX tracks of the course (below) and become familiar with the route.
- Post Run Gathering: Join us for a post-run gathering. Bring along a camp chair, some snacks, and perhaps some beer to share. This is your chance to connect with a community of runners and relax after the run.
Join the Black Canyon Ultras Facebook and Strava Groups for Additional Details
While we do not require trail work for the Black Canyon Ultras, we do encourage all runners to give back to the trails they love. Help us give back to the Black Canyon Trail Coalition by joining us on one of the three BCT Trail Work Days. We will be working on the Black Canyon Trail ahead of this year’s Black Canyon Ultras in December, January & February (dates below). Follow us on Facebook as we will post more specifics as we get closer. Please bring food, water, gloves and appropriate clothing. If we are working on the tread of the trail, we may ask you to wear pants and close-toed shoes. If you have brush clippers, please bring them as we may be trimming back overgrown vegetation.
Unless otherwise stated, we will provide a 75% race credit on Ultrasignup towards a future Aravaipa Running event if notified in writing to info@aravaiparunning.com 30 days out from the event. If notified 5 days prior to the event, a 50% race credit may be provided in case of injury or family emergency. No race credit will be issued within 4 days of the event or after the event. Registered individuals who become pregnant are eligible to receive 100% race credit for the event that they must withdraw from. They will be granted two years from the date they reached out to use this credit before expiration.
Credits will be good for one year from date of issuance and can only be used once. If you withdraw from an event for which credits were used, you will not be reissued those credits. This reissuance policy also includes credits earned and used by volunteering. No cash refunds or transfers to another participant or event will be issued under any circumstance. No selling of entries is permitted. No refunds or credits will be provided for dropping down in race distance.
At Aravaipa Running, we want to create and ensure a space for every athlete, fostering inclusivity within our sport. It is important to us that all runners and participants are accepted and welcome at our events. In that respect, we have established the following Transgender & Non-Binary Runner Policy.
Entrance Policy for Transgender Athletes
We will accept each entrant’s declared gender at face value, and no additional supporting evidence is required.
Participation for Elite Competition
Transgender women may register to compete in an elite women’s division, provided they have undergone continuous, medically supervised hormone treatment for gender transition for at least one year prior to the race.
Transgender men may register to compete in an elite men’s division. Transgender men may not register to compete in any women’s divisions if they have begun hormone treatment for transition that includes testosterone, or any other banned substance as defined by the World Antidoping Agency.
Runners may compete in the category of their sex assigned at birth if they have not undergone hormone treatment.
Transgender entrants, at their option, may provide medical documentation related to their transition to the Race Director prior to the race. All information about the runner’s gender identity and medical information, including any information provided pursuant to this policy, will be kept strictly confidential.
Challenges of Results Involving Transgender Athletes
Aravaipa Running and its organizers will not tolerate hateful or discriminatory behavior by any of our runners, or those associated with the race, regardless of the cause.
Our commitment to inclusivity extends to fostering a culture of respect and understanding among all participants. We expect all parties to behave in a manner that is honest, compassionate, and respectful. Discriminatory behavior or challenges based on gender identity will not be tolerated or entertained by the race organizers.
Entrance Policy for Non-Binary Athletes
Aravaipa is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all athletes including those who identify as non-binary. This policy outlines our approach to ensuring non-binary runners feel respected and included in our events.
Definition of Non-Binary
Non-binary individuals may not exclusively identify as either ‘man’ or ‘woman’ and may experience their gender identity in various ways. We recognize and respect the diverse ways individuals understand and express their gender.
Registration for Non-Binary Athletes
Non-binary and gender non-conforming athletes are encouraged to register as their self- identified gender. Ultrasignup now offers a non-binary option for runners upon registration. We pass this option on to our runners when they register. If you have an existing account, you may need to edit your account to indicate your gender as non- binary.
Awards and Podiums
If participation in an event by non-binary athletes warrants a top-three placement the race will include a Non-Binary Podium to award and recognize the athletes alongside the Men and Women’s Podiums.
Policy Review and Feedback
We are committed to ensuring this policy remains up-to-date and equitable. Your feedback is important to us. If you have questions, comments, or suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact the race organization or race director: info@aravaiparunning.com
Need to Know Course Info
Our medical team is provided by MedStar Solutions. For any emergency or medical question during the race, call 480-269-4126 instead of 911. This number is printed on your bibs, and we recommend programming it into your phone before race day.
IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY
PLEASE CALL 480-269-4126
OUR MEDICAL PERSONNEL ARE ON STANDBY FOR THIS RACE AT ALL TIMES AND WILL RESPOND FASTER THAN LOCAL FIRE & PD. DO NOT CALL 911
Medical personnel will be stationed at major aid stations and along the course, with the ability to dispatch assistance as needed.
For any other inquiries by runners or crews during the race, a direct line to race command is available. Text 602-830-4526, and the line will be monitored throughout the event.
The Black Canyon Trail intersects several county roads throughout the course, often near aid stations. While crossings will be marked, vehicle traffic is not required to stop. It is your responsibility to look both ways and cross carefully. Be mindful of potential jeep, truck, and ATV traffic. Pay extra attention at these major crossings: Antelope Mesa, Hidden Treasure, Bumble Bee Ranch, Gloriana, and Table Mesa.
Expect cold temperatures on race morning, likely dipping into the 30s. Dress in warm layers before your start. If you need to shed layers, place them in a warm-up bag at the start, and we’ll shuttle it to the finish for you. Check the forecast before race day— it’s not uncommon to experience cold mornings, afternoon heat, and even the occasional thunderstorm or snow at this time of year. Be prepared for all conditions.
Sunset is at 6:06 PM. To ensure adequate lighting during the race, please plan your drop bags accordingly: 18-20 Hour Finishers: Place a flashlight or headlamp in your Bumble Bee Ranch drop bag. 14-18 Hour Finishers: Place a light in your Deep Canyon Ranch drop bag. 11-14 Hour Finishers: Have a light ready at Table Mesa. Consider placing lights in multiple locations as a backup.
We are so lucky to make the outdoors our passion and we want to continue to keep the beautiful trails we enjoy clean and open for future use. We realize that an event of this magnitude has an environmental impact but Aravaipa has committed to minimizing that impact. To that end, Aravaipa will have recycling and Terracycling of wrappers at aid stations, will offset carbon footprint from staff travel, and the race will be cupless. We encourage runners to offset their own carbon footprint and we welcome any ideas you may have to increase the race’s environmental sustainability. Explore, enjoy, protect!
What does CUPLESS mean? There will be no paper cups for cold drinks at the aid stations. Runners will be responsible for carrying their own containers to refill along the way. Grab a cup, a hydration vest, pouch, or water bottle and we will fill it at each aid station along the way. We ask you to help us in our efforts by preparing for a cup-free race day and thank you in advance for being good stewards of the trail. We will provide hot cups for coffee, broth, and soup.
We have paired with Terracycle to help collect and recycle gel packets, energy bar wrappers, and other generally non-recyclable materials that we find every day in the running community. Look for our Terracycle containers at each aid station.
This is the Wild West, and several shooting ranges are located on BLM land near Hidden Treasure, Bumble Bee Ranch, and Table Mesa. At Table Mesa, you may hear gunfire from recreational shooting that can carry for miles. Rest assured, all shooting ranges are positioned away from the Black Canyon Trail and do not pose a risk to runners.
You’ll encounter several gates along the course. Please close all gates behind you to ensure cattle remain in their designated areas
If you decide to drop, you must do so at an aid station and inform the aid station captain. They will record your bib number and confirm your withdrawal from the race.
DO NOT WALK OFF COURSE!
Please note that due to the remote nature of this race, transportation back to the finish line is not guaranteed. If you drop at a remote aid station, you may need to wait until the station closes to get a ride.
Shuttle Info
Runners using the shuttle from the Outlets at Anthem to Mayer High School must park in the southwest corner of the Outlets, as shown on the map.
This parking area is located behind the Chevron gas station. Please park only in the designated lot. The buses will run on a schedule coordinated with your wave start.
Do not wait for the next shuttle— each bus will be full! If you miss the shuttle for your wave, you must wait for the next wave's shuttle, if available. Important
Saturday
Leaves Anthem
Arrival @ Mayer
Wave Start
Wave 1
5:45 AM
6:30 PM
7:00 PM
Wave 2
6:20 AM
7:05 PM
7:30 AM
Wave 3
6:45 AM
7:30 PM
8:00 AM
Note: No return shuttles will be provided from the finish line to Mayer High School. Please plan accordingly.
Shuttle Pickup Map
No parking is available at the 100K finish line at Emery Henderson or along New River Road.
Shuttles are provided for all runners to return to the Outlets at Anthem. Crews may meet their runner in the designated parking area at the Outlets. Shuttles between Anthem and the finish are FREE for all runners and crews. Shuttles start at 1:00 PM and run the duration of the event.
We strongly encourage 100K runners without crew to take the shuttle to the start and leave their vehicle at the Anthem Outlet Mall for added convenience.
Shuttle Pickup Map
50K SHUTTLE SUNDAY All 50K runners please park at Deep Canyon Ranch in the morning and take the shuttle bus to the start at Mayer High School. Once you finish, you will be at your car.
Sunday
Leaves Deep Canyon
Arrival @ Mayer
Wave Start
All Waves
6:05 AM
6:30 AM
7:00 AM
Films & Media
Results & Photos
100K
Current Course
Men | 7:24:55 | Seth Ruhling (2025)
Women | 8:16:18 | Riley Brady (2025)
High Water Reroute Course
Men | 7:20:28 | Matt Daniels (2019)
Women | 8:38:38 | Kaci Lickteig (2019)
50K
Men | 3:22:52 | Jeshurun Small (2025)
Women | 3:45:09 | Allison Baca (2025)
60K (Old Course)
Men | 4:06:39 | Eli Hemming (2024)
Women | 4:53:38 | Andrea McArdle (2019)
2025 | Howie Stern Photography
2024 | Howie Stern Photography
2023 | Howie Stern Photography
2022 | Howie Stern Photography | Aravaipa Photo Gallery
2021 | Howie Stern Photography | Aravaipa Photo Gallery
2020 | Paul Nelson Photography | Aravaipa Photo Gallery
2019 | Howie Stern Photography | Aravaipa Photo Gallery
2018 | Howie Stern Photography | Aravaipa Photo Gallery
2017 | SweetM Images | Aravaipa Photo Gallery
2016 | Aravaipa Photo Gallery | SweetM Images
2015 | Aravaipa Photo Gallery | Sweet M Images | Pete Beck
2014 | Aravaipa Photo Gallery
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