Kessel Run Ultra

Kessel Run Ultra

Kessel Run Ultra is a trail race held in Fruita, Colorado on November 7, 2026. The event takes place in the North Fruita Desert near the Colorado National Monument and offers multiple distance options.

Distances

• 10 Mile
• 20 Mile
• 50K
• 40 Mile
• 50 Mile

Runners follow fast, flowing singletrack that leads into the steeper ups and downs of the Zippity-Do-Da Trail. The course passes through high desert terrain with views of the San Juan Mountains and the Colorado National Monument.

Course data is provided for each distance. Example figures from published course files include:

• 50 mile course: lowest 5031', highest 5541', elevation gain 5177' and elevation loss 5177'.
• 40 mile course: lowest 5030', highest 5541', elevation gain 4090' and elevation loss 4090'.
• 50K course: lowest 5030', highest 5541', elevation gain 3438' and elevation loss 3438'.
• 20 mile course: lowest 5030', highest 5541', elevation gain 2034' and elevation loss 2034'.
• 10 mile course: lowest 5030', highest 5503', elevation gain 1086' and elevation loss 1086'.

This is a cupless event. Water dispensers are available at the start/finish area and at each aid station for refilling bladders, bottles, and reusable cups. Packet pickup is scheduled the day before the race and on race morning; a photo ID is required and entries are non-transferable. The start/finish area is located across from the 18 Road Parking; GPS coordinates are 39.31093, -108.70360. The Bureau of Land Management operates fee camping in the North Fruita Desert near the start/finish; reservations are available through recreation.gov. Runners receive a race shirt, bib, BOCO technical trucker hat, and a finisher's medal. Runner approved snacks and drinks are provided at the finish line. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.