2026 Franklin Mountains Trail Runs

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.