Elden Ridge Run

Elden Ridge Run - Flagstaff, AZ (October 17, 2026)

The Elden Ridge Run is a 1/2 Marathon held at the Sandy Seep Trailhead in Flagstaff, Arizona. The course begins on meadow and ponderosa-lined trails, crosses a power line access road, and turns onto Christmas Tree trail before linking to Elden Lookout trail and the climb to the summit of Mt. Elden. Volunteers will be stationed at a few intersections to help direct racers.

There is a single aid station located at roughly 6 miles into the race and about one mile from the summit; it will offer water, some fuel options, and an electrolyte beverage. After the summit, the route descends via the lookout tower road to Sunset trail, continues down New Heart trail with views of Little Elden, and follows Old Little Elden toward the final turns back to Christmas Tree trail and the Sandy Seep parking area. The final mile is a gradual descent to the parking lot over rocky footing and low pine branches.

Race cutoffs include a strict two hour cutoff at approximately five miles at the summit of Elden, with a total race cutoff of four hours; volunteers will track progress at key points. Parking at Sandy Seep is primitive, limited to about 30 vehicles, and high clearance vehicles are recommended. Other event details: no race day registration, no pacers allowed, aid only from event volunteers, poles allowed if carried for the entire race, bibs without chips with gun times only, two portable toilets at start/finish, planned bib pick up the day before and on race day, and a no refunds policy. October conditions typically average a high near 63°F and a low near 32°F, with the summit prone to gusty, colder conditions. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.