Saturday, September 1, 2018 • Santa Fe, NM • Course Map
Get ready for a rugged, challenging trail run through the mountains of the Santa Fe National Forest, here at over 10,000 feet above sea level, at the Ultra Santa Fe Trail races, which feature a 13-mile race, a 50K and a 50-miler, the last of which also features a relay for teams of two or four people.
The race unfolds through the gorgeous mountain country above New Mexico’s capital city, following an out-and-back loop course among the trails that surround the Ski Santa Fe resort, which lies about a half-hour’s drive from the city.
From the base of the ski area, runners will head out on a route that begins running south through the Big Tesuque drainage area and onto the Big Tesuque Trail, running later on Aspen Vista Road and the Winsor Trail, with a stretch that takes them past Deception Peak as well.
There’s an overall elevation climb of 4,000 feet during the 13-mile race — which will lengthen into a 14-mile race for this year, organizers say — and a nearly 6-mile-long stretch that’s nothing but uphill in the middle of the race.
From about mile 4 to somewhere around mile 10, the course proceeds entirely uphill — climbing from about 9,587 feet to roughly 12,200 feet by the time you reach the highest point of the race, at the summit aid station.
Once you’ve passed the summit, the race is mostly downhill for the final few miles, which unfold along the Winsor Trail back into Ski Santa Fe.
Runners are strongly encouraged to bring their own water bottles and hydration packs, organizers note, as there will be only two aid stations out on the half marathon course (five aid stations will be available on the other two race courses). In fact, you’re encouraged to bring along at least 40 ounces of water, they add.
You’ll be required to check in and out of each aid station to ensure you’re tracking to the time you’ll need to finish before the course closes.
Start/Finish Location
Race Weather & Climate
Nestled high up in the mountains of the Santa Fe National Forest overlooking the city below to the west, the Ski Santa Fe resort area typically sees cooler temperatures than Santa Fe thanks to its higher elevation (just over 10,300 feet), and averages between the low 40s and the upper 60s in September.
Course Map
See the race route for the Ultra Santa Fe Trail Half Marathon here.
Starting Time
see race website
Fees
- $50 and up for the half marathon
- $75 and up for the 50K
- $85 and up for the 50-mile
Registration
To reserve your spot in the 2018 running of the Ultra Santa Fe Trail Half Marathon, 50K, or 50-Mile race, register online at UltraSignUp.com here.
Official Race Website
Facebook Conversations
Ever run in the Ultra Santa Fe Half Marathon? Share your impressions here, as well as anything you learned about the race that you think other runners/walkers should know.
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