Monument Valley Veterans Marathon

Monument Valley Veterans Marathon & Half Marathon

The event takes place at Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park on November 21, 2026. Races start and finish in Arizona even though the park straddles the Arizona-Utah border. Proceeds support community health and wellness programs on the Navajo Nation.

Available distances include:

• 26.2 miles Marathon
• 13.1 miles Half Marathon
• 4 miles Wildcat Trail race

Online registration is offered for the Marathon, Half Marathon and Wildcat 4-Miler. Standard registration fees listed by the organizer apply; there are charity bib options and veterans-only entries with no registration fee. The organizer notes The View Hotel is covering the registration fee for veterans.

Course details: the Marathon runs largely on dirt and jeep roads through backcountry sections with sand and includes features named Arches Loop, Totem Pole, The Cube and Rain God Mesa. The Half Marathon follows a graded dirt valley loop with a notable descent and subsequent climb early in the route. The Wildcat 4-Miler follows the Wildcat Trail around East and West Mitten.

Support and logistics: packet pick-up is scheduled at the Visitor Center patio the evening before the races and on race morning. Aid stations provide hydration, Honey Stinger gels and chews, Gatorade, salty and sweet snacks, fresh fruit and portajohns. This is a cupless event; runners should bring a personal hydration system. Medical support and course staff include Utah Navajo Health System, Monument Valley Fire Department, Navajo Rangers and Navajo EMS.

Post-race activities include live music, award presentations with overall and age-group prizes, finisher medals and a veterans recognition at the finish. Typical November temperatures average a high of 54°F and a low of 26°F, with variable conditions possible. The race is co-sponsored by NavajoYES and Navajo Parks & Recreation with support from local partners. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.