Turquoise Trail Ultra

Turquoise Trail Ultra - Cedar Crest, New Mexico

The Turquoise Trail Ultra is a trail running event held at Gutierrez Canyon Open Space near Cedar Crest, New Mexico, on February 21, 2026. The event offers multiple distances on a looped course with mostly natural trail features and notable elevation per lap.

Distances

• 13k: one lap, about 1,000 ft gain
• 26k: two laps, about 2,000 ft gain
• 52k: four laps, about 4,000 ft gain

The course is described as 100% single track with smooth trail sections, rock gardens, and juniper trees. Each lap measures roughly 13 kilometers and includes a little over 1,000 feet of climbing. The route circles Gutierrez Canyon Open Space and passes through terrain associated with the historic Turquoise Trail.

There are two aid stations: one at the start and finish area and one on course at approximately 4.6 miles. Aid station offerings include water and Skratch, chips, cookies, bananas, vegetable soup or broth, and a mix of salty and sweet snacks. Locally made burritos will be available at the finish. The event is cup-less; participants are encouraged to use a personal cup or bottle. A reusable event cup is available for purchase for $5 cash or Venmo.

The start and finish are located at the Gutierrez Canyon Open Space parking lot off Highway 14 at 12216 NM-14, Cedar Crest, NM 87008. Overflow parking is at Mountain Christian Church about 0.25 miles north, with sidewalk access to the start area. Parking is not allowed at local businesses. The race is scheduled to proceed in rain, snow, or sunshine. Course cutoffs include a 10 hour limit for all distances and a 7.5 hour cutoff for the fourth lap of the 52k. Finisher socks are listed for 2026 and a custom hoodie is noted for entrants. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.