2026 Franklin Mountains Trail Runs
The 2026 Franklin Mountains Trail Runs are scheduled for January 24-25 in El Paso, Texas. Taking place within the Tom Mays Unit of Franklin Mountains State Park, this event invites participants to navigate rugged, technical terrain characteristic of the southern Rocky Mountains. For the event dates, El Paso typically experiences cool, dry winter conditions, with average highs in the low 60s°F (15-17°C) and lows in the mid-30s°F (1-3°C), though the high desert environment can bring variable wind and rapid temperature changes at elevation. Expect a demanding experience featuring steep ascents, loose scree, and exposed ridgelines, offering panoramic views across Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and Mexico.
Is this a trail run?
Yes, this is a true mountain trail race. The event takes place entirely on rugged, technical trails within Franklin Mountains State Park, ascending from the desert floor to the 7,192-foot summit of North Franklin Peak. The course includes steep climbs, rocky terrain, high desert exposure, and historic mining remnants, making it a demanding, authentic mountain trail experience.
What footwear is recommended for the course?
Trail shoes with aggressive tread and ankle support are strongly recommended due to the rocky, technical, and steep nature of the terrain.
What distances are available for the event?
Saturday, January 24:
- →55K (Ultra): Starts at 7:00 AM with a 16-hour cutoff
- →30K: Starts at 7:30 AM with a 6.5-hour cutoff
- →12-Hour Timed Event: Runs from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- →King/Queen of the Mountain (KOM/QOM): Starts at 8:00 AM
Sunday, January 25:
- →Half Marathon (13.1 mi): Starts at 7:00 AM with an 8-hour cutoff
- →10K: Starts at 8:00 AM with a 7-hour cutoff
- →5K: Starts at 8:00 AM with a 7-hour cutoff
How much does registration cost?
- →55K: $120
- →30K / 12-Hour: $120
- →Half Marathon: $100
- →10K: $90
- →5K / KOM/QOM: $80
- →Race Day Registration: Available if space permits
What is included in the registration fee?
- →Gender-specific technical race shirt (guaranteed only for those who register by January 8, 2026)
- →Unique finisher’s medal (guaranteed only for those who register by January 8, 2026)
- →State Park entry fee coverage
- →Scenic, challenging mountain course
- →Well-stocked aid stations
- →Inclusive, community-focused atmosphere
What are the registration deadlines?
- →Saturday Races (55K, 30K, 12-Hour, KOM/QOM): Close January 23, 2026, at 11:59 PM MST
- →Sunday Races (Half Marathon, 10K, 5K): Close January 24, 2026, at 11:59 PM MST
What is the field limit for the event?
The field is capped at 250 runners per day.
What are the course characteristics and terrain?
The course features approximately 3,000 feet of elevation gain from the desert floor to the summit. The terrain consists of rocky, exposed, technical singletrack with loose scree, steep switchbacks, and high-desert ridgelines. The scenery includes sunrise views over the Chihuahuan Desert, 360° mountain vistas, and historic tin mine ruins from 1910–1915. The setting is remote and primitive, with no water or services on the course beyond designated aid stations.
What is the event schedule?
Saturday, January 24:
- →55K: 7:00 AM start
- →30K: 7:30 AM start
- →12-Hour: 7:00 AM start
- →KOM/QOM: 8:00 AM start
Sunday, January 25:
- →Half Marathon: 7:00 AM start
- →10K: 8:00 AM start
- →5K: 8:00 AM start
What should participants bring regarding hydration and gear?
Self-sufficiency is encouraged. Participants should carry hydration and emergency gear, as conditions can be harsh and isolated. Aid stations will be stocked with water, electrolytes, and standard ultra fare, but the course is remote.