Grand Canyon Trail Half Marathon
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Grand Canyon Trail Half Marathon and 5k
The event offers three distances near the Grand Canyon South Rim in Tusayan, Arizona: a full marathon, a trail half marathon, and a 5k run/walk. The start/finish area and weekend festivities are centered at the IMAX Theater in Tusayan.
- Marathon
- Half Marathon (about 13.1 miles; maps list 13.19 miles)
- 5k Run/Walk
The marathon and half marathon follow a clockwise trail loop through Kaibab National Forest and the Coconino Plateau. Marathoners complete two laps; half marathoners complete one. The route remains above the rim and does not descend into the Grand Canyon. Surface types include dirt forest service roads, rough trail sections with rocks and roots, and a paved multiuse path that is part of the Arizona Trail near the finish.
Aid stations are located on the half marathon course at approximately Miles 3, 6, 9, and 11.5, with water at every stop and Gatorade or GU at selected stations. The 5k is an out-and-back route with a paved section and a dirt road turnaround at about 1.55 miles.
Permits and insurance prohibit animals on the course. The half marathon course is not suited for chair athletes; the 5k has a paved portion that may be chair-capable. The event supports local organizations including the Tusayan Fire District and the Grand Canyon Food Pantry. Participants receive a long sleeve race shirt and a souvenir medal. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.