Jackrabbit Classic

El Paso, United States • 29 Mar 2026

Event overview

The Jackrabbit Classic is the 23rd annual trail running event held at Franklin Mountains State Park, Tom Mays Unit in El Paso, Texas, on Sunday, March 29, 2026. The event offers three distances:

  • 4.5 miles
  • 8 miles
  • 12 miles

Entry fees are $40 for early registration and $45 after March 26. A $10 discount applies to Military, Fire and Police Departments, and First Responders. All participants receive a technical T-shirt. Age group awards and top three overall male and female awards are given in the 4.5- and 8-mile races. The 12-mile race awards the top three overall male and female finishers and medals for all finishers.

Logistics and course

Courses are on technical trails with steep climbs and descents at elevations from about 4,200 ft to 5,100 ft. Course maps will be posted; routes will be similar to recent years. All courses include an ascent of "Big Bertha Hill" between 3.5 and 4.5 miles. Aid stations are located at approximately 2 miles, 4.5 miles, 8 miles, and 12 miles, with water and other drinks available more frequently.

Packet pick-up and in-person registration are provided Saturday, March 28, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at UP AND RUNNING, 3233 N Mesa, Ste 205. There is no packet pick-up or registration on race day. Participants must show their race number to enter the park. Additional passengers who are not participants must pay a $5 day-use fee unless they hold an annual pass. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

12 mi
12 Mile
8 mi
8 Mile
5 mi
4.5 Mile
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Celebrate the 20th anniversary of Wakeem/Teschner Nature Preserve with a scenic 5k trail run or family 1 mile walk at Resler Canyon in El Paso. Support land conservation while enjoying beautiful desert trails and community fun.

Climb North Franklin Peak on rugged desert trails at the Franklin Mountains Trail Runs, a two day weekend in El Paso. Choose from 5K to ultramarathon and 12 hour formats, with big elevation gain, stunning views, and stocked aid stations.