Grand Canyon of the South Ultras
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Grand Canyon of the South Ultras
The Grand Canyon of the South Ultras is the inaugural trail running event held on the Virginia side of Breaks Interstate Park, presented by Southwest Virginia Running. The event uses the park's trail network and overlooks, with courses that pass sandstone cliffs, ridgelines, forested hollows, and singletrack carved into the Appalachian terrain.
The weekend offers a range of distances and formats to experience the park across the day. The 50K course traverses varied trail types including rocky sections, ridgeline running, multiple scenic overlooks, and significant elevation gain and loss, with fully stocked aid stations along the route. Two separate 10K options present different views of the canyon: a Morning 10K on forested mountain trails and a Sunset 10K timed to finish near dusk. The Double 10K combines both 10K races in one day, with official results for each.
The race takes place inside a destination park that provides lodging, camping, and on-site dining. Registered runners receive a lodging discount at Breaks Interstate Park. Park amenities mentioned for non-racing companions include a seasonal water park, a mountain lake, fishing, paddle boat and kayak rentals, playgrounds, picnic areas, scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. Registration for the event closes on September 9. Event policies and participant requirements are managed by Southwest Virginia Running. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.