2026 Monument Valley Ultra

The 2026 Monument Valley Ultra will take place on February 28, 2026, in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, located on the Arizona/Utah border, with all races starting and finishing in Arizona. The event will occur in the high desert environment of Oljato-Monument Valley, where weather conditions can be variable, with average high temperatures around 60°F and lows around 37°F. Participants can expect a challenging and scenic course that traverses singletrack trails, dirt roads, and paved Valley Drive, offering a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the region. The event is organized by NavajoYES and Navajo Parks & Recreation, with all proceeds supporting community health and wellness programs on the Navajo Nation.

What distances are available for this event?

• →50K race starting at 8:00 AM MST
• →Half Marathon starting at 9:00 AM MST
• →Wildcat 4-Miler starting at 12:00 PM MST

How much does registration cost?

• →50K race: $150 (price increases after February 22, 2026)
• →Half Marathon: $90
• →Wildcat 4-Miler: $45

What is the race schedule?

• →50K Race: Starts at 8:00 AM MST
• →Half Marathon: Starts at 9:00 AM MST
• →Wildcat 4-Miler: Starts at 12:00 PM MST

What are the course details for the 50K race?

• →The course consists of 32.25 miles, primarily on singletrack trail, dirt roads, and Valley Drive.
• →The route begins on the Sentinel Mesa Trail, connects to the Wildcat Trail, and exits at Valley Drive Road (mile 4.5).
• →It continues via Valley Drive and "the Marlboro Route" past North Window to Three Sisters Aid Station (mile 9.95).
• →The Mitchell Mesa segment includes an 11-mile out-and-back to the top of Mitchell Mesa, with a 1,500-foot ascent in just over a mile.
• →The Backcountry segment covers 7.80 miles through areas including Totem Pole, Rain God Mesa, Sand Springs, and The Cube.
• →The final 3.5 miles lead back to the finish line.

What are the cut-off times for the 50K race?

• →Mile 20.95 (Three Sisters): 2:00 PM (6 hours)
• →Mile 28.75 (Three Sisters): 5:00 PM (9 hours)
• →Finish Line: 6:30 PM (10.5 hours)

What are the course details for the Half Marathon?

• →The course is approximately 13.5 miles long.
• →It begins with a loop on the Sentinel Mesa Trail, connects to the Wildcat Trail, and exits at Valley Drive Road (mile 4.5).
• →It travels Valley Drive and connects with "the Marlboro Route" past North Window to Three Sisters Aid Station (mile 9.95).
• →The finish line is reached by heading back on Valley Drive.

Are there cut-off times for the Half Marathon?

• →There are no cut-off times for the Half Marathon.

What are the course details for the Wildcat 4-Miler?

• →The course utilizes the Wildcat Trail area, though specific route details are not fully described.

What is included in the race packet?

• →Packet pick-up is available on Friday, February 27, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Monument Valley Visitor Center.
• →On race day, packet pick-up is available for the 50K from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM and for the Half Marathon from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM at the Visitor Center.

What aid stations are available during the races?

• →Wildcat Trail Aid Station: Located at mile 4.5 (both races).
• →Three Sisters Aid Station: Located at mile 9.95 (Half Marathon) and miles 9.95, 20.95, 28.75 (50K). This station includes major medical support.
• →Mitchell Mesa Aid Station: A light station with fluids and gels at the base of the trail (miles 13.5 and 17.5 for the 50K).

What provisions are available at aid stations?

• →Honey Stinger gels/waffles
• →Gatorade
• →Salty snacks
• →Pickles
• →Coffee/tea
• →Fruit
• →Nutella wraps
• →Sandwiches
• →Hummus wraps
• →Broth
• →PBJs

Are runners required to carry their own hydration?

• →Yes, the event is cup-less, and runners must carry their own handheld bottle or hydration pack.

Where can runners leave drop bags?

• →Drop bags are available at the Three Sisters Aid Station. Runners must leave their drop bags at the start line near the hogans prior to the race.

Are pacers allowed?

• →Pacers are permitted for the 50K race after runners return to the Three Sisters Aid Station (approximately mile 20).

What awards are given to participants?

• →All participants receive a finisher's medal.
• →Overall and age-group awards are given to top performers.

What is the expected weather during the event?

• →The weather in Oljato-Monument Valley during early spring is variable, with average high temperatures around 60°F and lows around 37°F.
• →Wind, rain, or snow are possible.

What is the capacity for the event?

• →The event is capped at 500 runners.

What are the registration deadlines?

• →General registration ends on February 28, 2026, at 11:59 PM MST (or one hour before race time).
• →The price increases after February 22, 2026, at 11:59 PM MST.

Are there any hardship discounts available?

• →Yes, hardship discounts are available upon contact with the organizers.

What is the Navajo Parks Permit Fee?

• →A Navajo Parks Permit Fee is assessed during checkout, but it does not cover park entrance.