Hells Dells

Event overview

HELLS DELLS 50k is scheduled for April 25, 2026 in Prescott, Arizona, with the course starting and finishing at Watson Lake. The route is listed as 30.6 mi with about 3,300 ft of elevation gain and loss. The course is a continuous loop with an added lollipop and about 29.5 unique miles reported. Entry to Watson Lake requires a $3 park fee.

Course and logistics

The route runs through the granite Dells and contains long sections of slick rock, many interconnecting trails, and exposed sections with significant sun exposure. The organizer provides a GPS file of the route and will mark intersections in the Dells with arrows and color-coded flags, but runners are advised to use GPS navigation because flag tampering has occurred in the past. Two full aid stations are placed at roughly mile 10 and mile 20, and there is an additional water drop at about mile 25.5 that includes a vault toilet and a water fountain. The event is described as low-support; organizers supply water, sports drink, some food and popsicles, so participants should be largely self-sufficient and plan fluid and calorie needs accordingly. Cutoff times are set for intermediate stations and the finish. Registration involves a $20 fee with $15 returned at sign-in, and refunds (minus processing fees) are available until April 11, 2026. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.