
50K
Black Canyon Ultras · Organized by Aravaipa Running
Distance
50 km / 31.1 mi
Elevation gain
3,700 ft
Cutoff time
Not listed
Difficulty
Going the distance
Start time
2/15/2026, 2:00:00 PM
The Black Canyon 50K is the Sunday point to point race that starts at Mayer High School in Spring Valley and finishes at Deep Canyon Ranch in Black Canyon City. The course follows the Black Canyon National Recreation Trail through a spectacular swath of Sonoran Desert, think saguaro forests, rugged canyons, and wide open views.
You’ll run a non motorized national trail with a mix of singletrack, jeep tracks, and historic routes. It’s fast in places and rocky in others, with enough climbs and constant terrain changes to keep the day honest.
The 50K runs on the Black Canyon National Recreation Trail, starting at Mayer High School (Spring Valley) and finishing at Deep Canyon Ranch in Black Canyon City. Expect classic desert running: sun and exposure, rocky stretches, and highly runnable segments that reward steady pacing.
Start time is Sunday morning with wave starts. For full course maps, aid station charts, and shuttle details, see the official race website.