Sinks Canyon Trail Races 2026
Best For: Trail enthusiasts looking for a legitimate, technical mountain challenge in the Wyoming wilderness.
Course Character: Hilly and relentless with high technicality.
Logistics Score: ⭐⭐⭐ (Lander is a small mountain town; you'll need to plan your transit from larger hubs like Casper or Jackson Hole carefully.)
Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (High-quality aid, Maurten support, and serious terrain for the price.)
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This isn't a "groomed trail" event. If you are looking for a soft, predictable loop, look elsewhere. This is a rugged, single-track affair that rewards technical descending skills and punishes those who underestimate the Wyoming elevation.
Sinks Canyon Trail Races 2026 takes place on Saturday, June 13, 2026, in Lander, United States. The event offers 6K, 18K, and 50K distances. It is a premier choice for runners wanting to experience the raw, unpolished beauty of the Wind River area.
Which distance should I pick?
The 6K is a casual, non-competitive river run—perfect for families or a recovery day, but don't expect a podium. The 18K is the "sweet spot" for intermediate trail runners; it’s competitive and features a punchy climb up Brewer's Trail. However, if you want the real deal, the 50K is a "legit mountain ultra." It’s a massive 6,400 ft of climbing that will test your grit across ridges and through wildflowers.
What am I in for on the trails?
Expect a lot of "swooping" single-track and rugged two-track. The 18K and 50K are heavily technical (80% single-track). You will be dealing with rocky canyon floors, steep climbs like the Aspen Grade, and exposed sections near Worthen Meadows. Check the Plotaroute ↗ maps for the 18K and Plotaroute ↗ for the 50K to see the vertical profile before you commit.
What do I need to know about fueling and aid?
This is a cupless race, so bring at least a 0.5L bottle (1L is safer for the 50K). The aid is surprisingly high-end for a mountain race: you'll find Skratch, Maurten gels, and even Coke/Ginger Ale at the major stations. Be warned: the 6K has zero aid stations—carry everything. For the 50K, the section between Mile 12 and Mile 20 is a long stretch, and the section near Worthen Meadows is minimal. Do not skimp on your water carrying capacity.
What is the weather like in Wyoming this time of year?
June in Lander can be a wildcard. Expect crisp, cool mornings (potentially in the 40s°F) that quickly climb into warm, sunny afternoons. The high-altitude exposure on the ridges means you can get hit by intense sun or sudden mountain shifts. Bring layers and a hat.
How do I handle the logistics of getting there?
Lander is remote. Your best bet is flying into Casper (CPR) and driving about 2 hours, or flying into Jackson Hole (JAC) and taking a longer scenic drive. Since it's a small town, book your accommodation early; there aren't endless hotel blocks near the start.
How do I register?
You can secure your spot via Ultrasignup ↗. Note that registration closes the Tuesday of race week, but don't wait—mountain races in this region tend to fill up with the local ultra community.