Elden Ridge Run

Elden Ridge Run

The Elden Ridge Run is a trail half marathon held at the Sandy Seep Trailhead in Flagstaff, AZ on October 17, 2026. The course begins on open meadows with ponderosa pines, moves into shaded single track, and includes a sustained climb to the summit of Mt. Elden before a mostly downhill return to the trailhead.

Racers follow Christmas Tree trail to Elden Lookout trail for the summit section, then descend via the lookout road to Sunset trail and New Heart trail past the red and orange cliffs of Little Elden. The route features technical sections, speed checks, classic Arizona rock, and several small rollers. Volunteers will be stationed at key intersections to assist with navigation; course markings will be used.

There is one aid station located at approximately 6 miles with water, electrolyte beverage, and additional fuel options. A strict 2 hour cutoff exists at about 5 miles at the summit of Elden and a total race cutoff of 4 hours; volunteers will monitor these cutoffs.

Parking is at the primitive Sandy Seep Trailhead. High clearance vehicles are recommended and there is room for no more than 30 vehicles; overflow parking options require a walk. There will be no race day registration.

Rules and logistics include no pacers, no outside aid except at the established aid station, poles allowed if carried for the entire race, gun times only for bibs, two portable toilets with sanitizer at start and finish, bib pick up the day before and on race day, and a no refunds policy in most circumstances.

October climate averages are about 63°F high and 32°F low, with gusty and colder conditions possible near the summit. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.