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Canyonlands Ultra

Canyonlands Ultra: trail running through Moab's iconic desert landscapes.

Race Date

Oct 24, 2026

Location

Moab, UT

Quick facts

Date
Saturday, October 24, 2026
Location
Moab, Utah
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi)
Course
Loop Course
Terrain
Mixed
USATF certified
Not listed

Highlights

Good For

Destination Worthy

Atmosphere

Local CommunityWell Organized

Course

Scenic Route

The Experience

The Canyonlands Ultra in Moab, Utah, offers a trail running adventure amidst the state's famed red rock scenery. Runners navigate varied terrain, from sandy washes to technical double track, all while soaking in awe-inspiring views of the La Sal Mountains and towering sandstone formations.

This event, part of the Mad Moose Events' Run Moab Series, draws participants from approximately 23 states, highlighting its appeal as a destination race. With a median field size of around 129 finishers, the atmosphere is intimate yet connected to a vibrant trail running community.

While the half marathon is the focus, the series also includes distances from 15K up to 100K, providing a comprehensive trail running weekend. The typical winning time for the half marathon is about 93 minutes, indicating a challenging yet rewarding course.

Race-provided description

Join us for the ultimate trail running experience at the Canyonlands Ultra, part of Mad Moose Events' popular Run Moab Series! With events ranging from 15k to 100K, this weekend is the best way to immerse yourself in the trail running community and explore the breathtaking scenery of Moab. Our course takes runners through some of the best trails in Moab, featuring varied terrain that includes sandy washes, technical double track, and awe-inspiring views of the magnificent La Sals, towering sandstone domes, and expansive canyons. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to challenge yourself and connect with the vibrant trail running community of Moab. Register now and become part of the Canyonlands Ultra legacy! Canyonlands Ultra is part of our Run Moab Series. Check out all of our Moab races!

Logistics

Race Day

Saturday, October 24, 2026

Start Time

TBA

Start Location

Behind the Rocks Trail, Moab, UT, 84532

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Loop Course

Terrain

mixed

Scenery

Desert

Surface

Dirt Trail

Difficulty

Rolling Hills

Quality Score

Methodology
Heritage2/20

1 year running

Size11/15

~129 finishers a year

Momentum5/5

growing or steady

Loyalty0/20

0% returning runners

Course & details3/15

4 timing sources

National draw8/10

runners from 23 states

Front-pack speed1/5

winner 1:33:19

Weather5/10

typical high 66°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

43°

Afternoon (High)

67°

Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish

0.1"

Precipitation

9 mph

Wind

49%

Humidity

Frequently asked

When is the Canyonlands Ultra?

The Canyonlands Ultra is held on Saturday, October 24, 2026.

Where does the Canyonlands Ultra take place?

It takes place in Moab, Utah.

What distances does the Canyonlands Ultra offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles).

Is the Canyonlands Ultra course flat and good for a PR?

The Canyonlands Ultra is a rolling hills, loop course course.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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