2026 Turquoise Trail Ultra

The 2026 Turquoise Trail Ultra will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026, in Cedar Crest, New Mexico, within the Gutierrez Canyon Open Space. The event is set against a backdrop of high-desert terrain, with mountain views and juniper forests framing the single-track trails. Weather conditions in Cedar Crest on the event date are expected to be mild, with temperatures ranging from 35°F to 50°F and the possibility of light snow or rain. Participants will experience a challenging yet scenic course that features over 1,000 feet of climbing per lap on runnable, fast terrain. The race will be held in all weather conditions, with aid stations providing essential supplies throughout the course.

What distances are available for this event?

• →13K: 1 lap | ~1,023 ft elevation gain | Start: 9:00 AM
• →26K: 2 laps | ~2,046 ft elevation gain | Start: 9:00 AM
• →52K: 4 laps | ~4,092 ft elevation gain | Start: 8:00 AM

What are the course cutoff times for this event?

• →10 hours for all distances
• →Additional 7.5-hour cutoff to begin lap 4 of the 52K

What is the weather policy for this event?

• →Race proceeds rain, snow, or sunshine

What aid stations will be available during the event?

• →Two locations—start/finish line and one on-course station at approximately mile 4.6
• →Offerings include water/Skratch, chips, cookies, bananas, vegetable soup/broth, and assorted salty/sweet snacks with emphasis on fresh, minimally packaged foods

What is the sustainability policy for this event?

• →Cupless event—runners must bring their own vessel or purchase a reusable cup ($5) at packet pickup

What swag will be provided to participants?

• →Custom hoodie and practical finisher socks for all participants

When and where is packet pickup for this event?

• →Friday, February 20: 4:30–6:30 PM at Rumor Brewing Company (28 Arroyo Seco Rd, Cedar Crest)
• →Saturday, February 21: 7:15–8:45 AM at start/finish line (closes 15 minutes before each race start)

What is the race start schedule?

• →13K and 26K: 9:00 AM
• →52K: 8:00 AM