2026 Zion Ultras & Trail Half Marathon

The Zion Ultras Trail Half Marathon is a desert trail run through the mesas of southern Utah, adjacent to Zion National Park. Now in its eighth edition, this night-timed half draws about 250 runners from nearly 40 states, with a small 5% repeat rate that reflects its niche appeal. It starts and finishes at the remote Smithsonian Butte basecamp, setting a tone of isolation and immersion.

The course is pure Southern Utah trail: long stretches of singletrack, slickrock, and exposed dirt with sustained climbs and technical footing. Runners earn every step of the nonstop panoramic views across the canyon landscape. The half marathon kicks off Friday evening, allowing runners to enjoy the desert sunset, though temperatures can reach the low 80s even at that hour.

With a small field and a remote camp atmosphere, this is an intimate, low-key event that feels worlds away from crowded races. It's a true destination run for trail enthusiasts seeking a challenging, scenic adventure in a stunning natural setting. The basecamp finish fosters camaraderie among finishers, making the effort worthwhile.