Articles

Belgian Ultrarunner Karel Sabbe's Record-Breaking Pacific Crest Trail Run Showcased in New YouTube Documentary

Explore Karel Sabbe's record-breaking Pacific Crest Trail run in a riveting documentary. Jour..

Trail Running: How it Can Help Reduce Stress and Anxiety

Trail running is an effective way to reduce stress, anxiety, and improve physical and mental he..

Trail Running vs. Road Running: Which One Is Right For You?

When it comes to running, there are two primary options to choose from: trail running and road..

Southwest Vertical Challenge at AZ Snowbowl

Name: Southwest Vertical Challenge at AZ Snowbowl
Start: 2026-08-15
End: 2026-08-15
Location: Flagstaff

Flagstaff, United States • 15 Aug 2026

Southwest Vertical Challenge at AZ Snowbowl

The Southwest Vertical Challenge at AZ Snowbowl is an inaugural uphill mountain race held at Arizona Snowbowl in Flagstaff, Arizona. The course covers approximately 11 miles of continuous ascent on marked high-altitude trails and is sanctioned by USA Track & Field Mountain Ultra Trail standards. The route begins near 7,000 feet and finishes above 11,500 feet, offering views of the San Francisco Peaks and surrounding Northern Arizona forests.

Field size is limited to 150 participants. The event includes on-course hydration and nutrition stations, designated safety support, and a summit finish area with a post-race celebration. Packet pickup is scheduled on the two days prior to race day at a pre-race location in Flagstaff; same-day packet pickup is not available. Spectators are permitted in designated viewing areas.

Age eligibility requires runners to be 18 or older, and the organizer recommends prior trail or mountain running experience because of technical terrain and significant elevation gain. Time cutoffs apply: runners must reach the Aspen Loop aid station within 4.5 hours of the start and must complete the full course within 8 hours for official results. Awards include podium recognition for top male and female finishers and age group categories. Volunteer roles cover course support, aid stations, check-in, and finish area operations. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

United States Arizona Flagstaff

Race information

Website

11 mi

Uphill Race

Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Trail runs nearby

Friday Jun 19

Blackout Night Runs

Night trail races in the ponderosa pines of Flagstaff offering 27K, 13K and 6K on marked single track and forest paths at about 7,000 feet, with chip timing, aid stations, finish medals and live tracking.

Saturday Jun 20

Flagstaff Extreme Big Pine Trail Runs

A multi-distance trail race at Fort Tuthill County Park on June 20, 2026, running through ponderosa pines above 7,000 feet. Loop courses from 6K to 50K with stocked aid stations, chip timing, and on-site group camping.

Sunday Sep 13

Groovin' in the Aspens

...

A trail running event at Fort Valley Trailhead in Flagstaff offering 6K to 50K routes through pine and aspen forest, looped courses with aid stations up to seven miles apart, and race shirts, medals, and snacks for finishers.

Sat - Sun Sep 19-20

Flagstaff to Grand Canyon Stagecoach Line Ultra

Flagstaff

55 km

100 mi

A multi discipline endurance weekend from Flagstaff toward the Grand Canyon featuring 100 mile and 55K trail runs, a 100 mile mountain bike race, and relay team options. The course follows the Arizona Trail near the San Francisco Peaks.