Elden Ridge Run

Elden Ridge Run : October 17, 2026 (date subject to change)

Elden Ridge Run is a trail half marathon starting at the Sandy Seep trailhead near Flagstaff, AZ. The course begins with open meadows and ponderosa forest, then follows Christmas Tree trail to Elden Lookout trail for a sustained climb to the summit of Mt. Elden. Runners descend via the lookout tower road to Sunset trail, continue down New Heart trail past the red and orange cliffs of Little Elden, and return along Old Little Elden before a final stretch on Christmas Tree trail back to the trailhead. The route includes single track, some technical sections, and several short rollers.

There is one staffed aid station located at about six miles into the race and a little over one mile from the summit; it provides water, electrolyte beverage, and other fuel options. Cutoffs include a strict two hour cutoff at the summit intersection near five miles and a total race cutoff of four hours. Volunteers will be posted at key turns and the organizers will mark the course.

Parking is at the primitive Sandy Seep Trailhead. High clearance vehicles are recommended and parking is limited to around 30 vehicles; some overflow exists at Elden Pueblo and Peaks Ranger Station but those locations require additional walking. Other rules: no pacers, no external aid except at the aid station, poles are allowed but must be carried if started with, bibs will not have timing chips gun times only, and two portable toilets will be available at start and finish. The organizers state no refunds or future race credits for cancellations due to fire or trail damage. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.