Elden Ridge Run

Elden Ridge Run, Oct 17, 2026

Elden Ridge Run is a 1/2 Marathon held in Flagstaff, Arizona, with start and finish at the Sandy Seep Trailhead. The course begins on meadow and ponderosa-lined sections and moves quickly into shaded single track after crossing a power line access road.

Runners turn onto Christmas Tree trail and follow rolling terrain to the climb where Christmas Tree trail meets Elden Lookout trail. The ascent leads to the summit of Mt. Elden. From the summit the route drops via the lookout tower road to Sunset trail, offering broad views of nearby peaks and Flagstaff. A single aid station is located at roughly six miles, about one mile from the summit, and provides water, electrolyte beverage and other fuel options.

The second half features a gradual but sustained descent on New Heart trail with red and orange cliffs of Little Elden in view. The route includes technical single track, several speed checks, and short rollers before a crucial intersection near Little Elden trail. After linking into Old Little Elden, runners rejoin Christmas Tree trail for the final mile back to Sandy Seep. The last mile descends gradually to the parking area with some rocky sections and low reaching pine branches.

There is a strict 2 hour cutoff at the summit intersection near five miles, enforced by volunteers, and a total race cutoff of 4 hours. Parking at Sandy Seep is primitive, limited to about 30 vehicles, and high clearance vehicles are recommended. The event allows poles if carried for the full distance, prohibits pacers, limits outside aid to the established aid station, and issues gun times only with bibs that have no timing chips. Two portable toilets with liquid sanitizer will be available at start and finish. Bib pick up is planned for Oct 16 and on race day at Sandy Seep Trailhead. Post race provisions include a free to racers espresso bar and recovery snacks and drinks. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.