Yaateeh runners! Welcome to the Four Corners Quad Keyah Marathon Series.
The Four Corners Quad Keyah (“Four Lands” in the Navajo language) will be staged at the Four Corners Monument near Teec Nos Pos, Arizona on the Navajo Nation. There will be options of trail and paved routes each day, which will feature local music acts and a heated food tent. Registration includes performance t-shirt, finisher’s medal each day, pre-race breakfast, professional timing and multiple pieces of race gear, including unique four-state finisher’s award.
Schedule of Races
A marathon and half marathon will be completed each day, Thursday through Sunday. There is no course limit and all runners will have the chance to finish the race each day. Each day will begin and end in one of the four states: Thursday will feature a marathon beginning and ending in Arizona; Friday is Utah. Saturday will be Colorado, while Sunday will begin and end in New Mexico.
There will be a single-day marathon and half – Four Corners Marathon & Half – staged on Sunday, with a cap of 100 runners.
Course
Each day’s race will begin and end in a unique state each day – Arizona (Thursday), Utah (Friday), Colorado (Saturday) and New Mexico (Sunday). This format offers runners a chance to complete four marathons or half marathons in four states in four days. Runners will experience each state every day, but the designated state for each day is where you will begin and end. Runners may choose to compete on a trail or a one-mile paved option each day. The routes consist of a variety of terrain and scenery, and offer runners a variety of experiences.
The Arizona and New Mexico trail routes will utilize a 5.25 mile trail/dirt road course, which runners will complete five times; half runners do two laps and out-and-back to Ray’s A.S. Utah will feature a 5.25 mile loop course, including some challenging singletrack in the beautiful surrounding canyons. Runners will experience the San Juan River on each loop. Colorado will have a scenic and very runnable 5.25 mile trail course that runners will complete five times; half runners do two laps and a shorter final loop. The Colorado loop will take you to the San Juan River.
The loop nature of the events will allow runners to have regular access to their personal kit and to course support – food, medical support and live music.
Registration
The registration cap is 150 four-day series runners, with 10 charity bibs available. Your registration includes on-course support (including fluids, Honey Stinger products, fresh fruit, and sweet and salty snacks.), race swag, entertainment throughout the weekend and post-race food each day. All proceeds benefit youth adventure and community wellness programs on the Navajo Nation.
Food & Entertainment
There will be snack boxes available after each day’s race. We will also have a variety of live entertainment each day on and near the course, including drummer Gary Elthie, a variety of royalty, local favorite Red Hawk and more.
The Four Corners Quad Keyah Marathon Series is co-sponsored by the nonprofit organization NavajoYES, Four Corners Monument, and Navajo Parks & Recreation Dept., with major support from the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Beclabito Baptist Church, Utah Navajo Health System and Teec Nos Pos Trading Post.
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Great production, difficult terrain for
This was a well organized event with fantastic volunteers. I choose to do the New Mexico half and only one day of participation. The course was trail (two loops of … MORE
This was a well organized event with fantastic volunteers. I choose to do the New Mexico half and only one day of participation.
The course was trail (two loops of 5.5 miles on trail and then a 5K on the road to and the run through the monument). The trail proved too challenging for me (I have Parkinson’s), so I did one 5.5 trail loop, tripping multiple times before finally taking a hard fall about mile 3), and then I switched to the road doing multiple loops until I hit 13.1 on my Garmin. I did let the timer know that I was switching from trail to road, and he cautioned me to make sure I track my distance.
I was happy to finished with no broken bones. Volunteers and other racers were so encouraging! Got a nice shirt and finisher’s medal, and the post race Navajo tacos were out of this world! They even had enough for super slow people like me.
I did get to see a couple of wild horses while out on the course, so that was definitely cool!
Four Corners Quad Keyah - Day 4 - NM
It. Is. Finished!!! This was hands-down the toughest, wildest, and most joy-filled running adventure I've accomplished in a long time. I ran 4 half-marathons in 4 days in 4 states … MORE
It. Is. Finished!!! This was hands-down the toughest, wildest, and most joy-filled running adventure I’ve accomplished in a long time. I ran 4 half-marathons in 4 days in 4 states (AZ, UT, CO, NM). A total of 52 plus miles – and I had never ever run back-to-back races before…let alone four! This race series has been on my bucket list for years, and it absolutely lived up to the dream – truly a once-in-a-lifetime achievement. But WOW, did it test every fiber of my being. On Day 3, I nearly quit!!! The mental and physical pain was unreal, but sheer stubbornness kept me moving. Then Day 4 arrived and the emotions finally caught up. Around mile 9, I suddenly found myself SOBBING…the kind of messy cry that comes from deep sorrow but is laced with gratitude. I wailed out to the mountains without apology, and by chance, I had that moment all to myself. Over the years, running has shown me parts of myself that I didn’t know existed. It also reminds me how special the running community is – strangers encouraging one another with a nod, a word, a high-five, sharing goals, stories, and smiles despite the aches. Runners truly make the world brighter! I’m grateful for every connection, every lesson, and for these strong (but very tired) legs that carried me through. I’m definitely changed – in the best way from this running experience – and I can’t wait for the miles still to come. Run strong!
Four Corners Quad Keyah - Day 2 - UT
I chose to run the road to complete Utah. This road is one mile long and I had to run it back and forth, 13 times! But I finished it … MORE
I chose to run the road to complete Utah. This road is one mile long and I had to run it back and forth, 13 times! But I finished it with my sanity still intact. Some of the runners chose to run a full marathon on this one-mile road!!! I absolutely do not have the mental capacity for that! To stay sane, I listened to podcast and switched to music when I needed a pep in my step. So far, I’ve made so many great connections and got inspired by those running against their adversity! This race is tough in many ways but it is also fulfilling on so many levels. Just in case you are interested the Ute Mountain Casino is located 30 minutes from my Airbnb and also the same distance from the Four Corners Monument. To get to the race location, you can get there by just putting “Four Corners Monument” in your GPS and it will take you right there.
A happy, in it together, experience.
1, 2, 3, or 4 days of full or half marathons on 4 different and tough, well marked, trail routes of 5 loops of just over 5 miles each. Or … MORE
1, 2, 3, or 4 days of full or half marathons on 4 different and tough, well marked, trail routes of 5 loops of just over 5 miles each. Or the 26 out and back loops on the flat tarmacadam ‘Road option’ – Each day the 2 distances and the diffrent trail or same road route is yours to make. My target was all 4 states (Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona.) You will actually get to repeatidly run through the monument itself.
The spirit, good humour of the organiser’s, the local hosting tribe and the Four Corners Monument / setting is excellent. You enjoying turning up each day, the other runners talk, nod, smile at each other as the familiarity grows. The ‘aid table’ is literally a feast of sweets, treats, snacks, fruit, water, coke, energy drinks, gels. Each day a meal is served. I had Subway sandwiches, pizza, Indian fry breads and an actual carvery meal – with starter and dessert – on the last day. A diffrent live band plays all day every day and music / seating is set up around the aid tent. The car park ($8 dollars a day) is on the route and a very useful dry secure storage option. Their are ample WC’s right beside the route should you need them.
I thought 26 laps would be a nightmare but they just flew past. I assumed the traffic would be an issue. It was out of season so light and those who did visit the monument were very, very considerate, drove very slowly and nearly always were waving, tooting and hanging out the windows encouraging our collective madness. The setting, the views and little chats with other runners and walkers, let’s just say my ‘tunes’ spent more time on ‘pause’ than ‘play.’ Time is not the issue, encouraging each other to finish takes over. Walking is a very, very feasible option and the reason many opt for this event. Providing a little extra time and fully encouraging walker entries is a clever move by the organiser’s as lots of them tuned up. (They outnumbered the runners.) After 2 days ‘the running’ also became a thought rather than a practical option for many determined souls toughing the distance out for the four medals.
I cannot fault this casual but well run and professional event. I have only one slight issue. A dedicated electronic sign counting up (or down) your laps as your ‘bib chip’ passed over the timing mat would free poor Josh from the laborious task of keeping score.
10 out of 10. Would love to do this again.
Four Corners Quad Keyah - Day 1 - AZ
It took me a couple of years to put this trip together to attend the Four Corners Quad Keyah races due to conflicts. In my attempt to complete 50 states, … MORE
It took me a couple of years to put this trip together to attend the Four Corners Quad Keyah races due to conflicts. In my attempt to complete 50 states, I wanted to get four in one weekend. This race series is to run 4 half or full marathons, in 4 days in 4 states. Anyway I finally made it in 2025! So, I’m going to give you my experience so far on Day 1: I flew from AZ to the airport in Cortez, CO which is an almost 2 hour drive to my Airbnb located near downtown Cortez which has a Safeway grocery store and many places to eat. I got there a day early (Wednesday) to make sure that I get a lay of the land. And it was worth it. I even drove to the Four Corners Monument to make sure that I knew where it was located. It was a 40 minute drive from my Airbnb on highway 160. Thursday, 12/4, was the first race which was designated for AZ. When I got there, I paid the park fee for all four days at $8 and they take debit/credit cards for payment. Once I parked, I got my Bib and then waited for the race to begin at 8:30 AM. We begin the race at the Four Corners Monument and followed the trail for the half marathon. I choose trail instead of road. So, it had snowed the day before and the trail got very muddy and slippery. Not fun! The mud slowed me down significantly. My trail shows are unrecognizable in the end. The trail was well marked and there was staff positioned to direct runners. The trail was a loop of 5 miles and some change and then we had to do another smaller loop to get the last three miles. There were less than 100 runners. There was music and the aid stations were well-stocked. The camaraderie that comes with this race is not like any other. I ran alongside people that I was meeting for the first time and taking pictures with them. The scenery is breathtaking for the trail route. Tom and the staff put on a great race for the runners.
Road day
We chose to do the road today for 13 and a half miles after 4 days of running it feels like you have friends within the participants. Food tent is … MORE
We chose to do the road today for 13 and a half miles after 4 days of running it feels like you have friends within the participants.
Food tent is amazing. Community was there as well and made up lunch for the runners and family. Navajo Tacos were great.
Day 3 4 corners half marathon
Day three was Colorado we ran North from four corners monument onto the trail and then did a Switchback Loop and it was multiple laps of that we ended up … MORE
Day three was Colorado we ran North from four corners monument onto the trail and then did a Switchback Loop and it was multiple laps of that we ended up not able to do the Switchback due to our legs switched to finishing on the road due to our limitations.
Four Corners Quad Keyah - Day 3 - CO
As expected on Day 3, my body started to break down in some ways. My left hip started hurting at the very started of the race. Per usual, we could … MORE
As expected on Day 3, my body started to break down in some ways. My left hip started hurting at the very started of the race. Per usual, we could choose between trail or road, I opted to do trail instead but four miles in my leg started screaming at me and so I switched to road which made it somewhat is easier. I was limping most of the way until someone offered me Icy Hot and I was able to finish the last two miles with more ease. Tom kept the swag coming when we checked in the morning, there was entertainment, good food including fried bread. A masseuse was stationed on site to give us a massage at the end of the race. Many of the runners kept her busy today. If you are looking for things to do after the race, Shiprock pinnacle is located 40 minutes from the starting line and some people visited Mesa Verde National Park to visit the cliff dwellings as well.
Need to upgrade to fair race practices
The trailer runners are the only runners that will get rewarded, but that are not tracked to go through the mat like the road runners. They did not have a … MORE
The trailer runners are the only runners that will get rewarded, but that are not tracked to go through the mat like the road runners. They did not have a timing mat at their turnaround point and their distance was shorten two days. I know for a fact today the two half marathoners trail runners cheated and did not complete their routes. They were supposed to go back out to the cattle gate after they finished their last lap and they didn’t. They both ran from the trail straight to the finish line, yet they are Overall Female 1 and 2 for Day 3. Meanwhile, no one is looking at consistent times, the timing mat with the laps and making adjustments to the results. I was the first overall female for the road series and received absolutely NOTHING!
Day 4 of 4!
I loved running this series. The trails were very challenging for someone who lives in the flat lands at sea level, but I loved the views. The people were great. … MORE
I loved running this series. The trails were very challenging for someone who lives in the flat lands at sea level, but I loved the views. The people were great. There was a lot of on the course snacks, so no need to bring your own unless you just want to make sure you have food you know you can eat.
Reverse is worse! lol!
Due to a situation outside of the control of the race, the trail we were scheduled to run wasn’t an option. They were about to quickly come up with an … MORE
Due to a situation outside of the control of the race, the trail we were scheduled to run wasn’t an option. They were about to quickly come up with an alternative- which was mainly doing day #2 course in reverse. It was more challenging in reverse, but I am proud to say I did it!
Need to upgrade to fair race practices
The trailer runners are the only runners that will get rewarded, but that are not tracked to go through the mat like the road runners. They did not have a … MORE
The trailer runners are the only runners that will get rewarded, but that are not tracked to go through the mat like the road runners. They did not have a timing mat at their turnaround point and their distance was shorten two days. I know for a fact today the two half marathoners trail runners cheated and did not complete their routes. They were supposed to go back out to the cattle gate after they finished their last lap and they didn’t. They both ran from the trail straight to the finish line, yet they are Overall Female 1 and 2 for Day 3. Meanwhile, no one is looking at consistent times, the timing mat with the laps and making adjustments to the results. I was the first overall female for the road series and received absolutely NOTHING!
Meh
This day I did the road option as the trail in UT is a lot more challenging. While they advertise it as 4 states if you do the road option … MORE
This day I did the road option as the trail in UT is a lot more challenging. While they advertise it as 4 states if you do the road option that’s basically all just New Mexico with the exception of the start and finish. It’s rather boring doing 26 laps but it worked. I don’t know that I’d necessarily recommend unless you’re just looking to get the states done – which this even works great for.
Beautiful scenery
The scenery on the trail was amazing! Highly recommend if you are up for a challenge. This is a laid back atmosphere- the people are very friendly & encouraging. I … MORE
The scenery on the trail was amazing! Highly recommend if you are up for a challenge. This is a laid back atmosphere- the people are very friendly & encouraging. I loved it!
Need to upgrade to fair race practices
The trailer runners are the only runners that will get rewarded, but that are not tracked to go through the mat like the road runners. They did not have a … MORE
The trailer runners are the only runners that will get rewarded, but that are not tracked to go through the mat like the road runners. They did not have a timing mat at their turnaround point and their distance was shorten two days. I know for a fact today the two half marathoners trail runners cheated and did not complete their routes. They were supposed to go back out to the cattle gate after they finished their last lap and they didn’t. They both ran from the trail straight to the finish line, yet they are Overall Female 1 and 2 for Day 3. Meanwhile, no one is looking at consistent times, the timing mat with the laps and making adjustments to the results. I was the first overall female for the road series and received absolutely NOTHING!
Works to get states done
I added in this half as I needed to get AZ done and it worked well with my race schedule. I just did a half one day and a full … MORE
I added in this half as I needed to get AZ done and it worked well with my race schedule.
I just did a half one day and a full one other day which apparently isn’t a thing (?) but really should be as they’d attract more people who just need one or two states instead of committing to all 4.
The trail was difficult but was pretty at least. They have an aid station on course and finish line food.
Need to upgrade to fair race practices
The trailer runners are the only runners that will get rewarded, but that are not tracked to go through the mat like the road runners. They did not have a … MORE
The trailer runners are the only runners that will get rewarded, but that are not tracked to go through the mat like the road runners. They did not have a timing mat at their turnaround point and their distance was shorten two days. I know for a fact today the two half marathoners trail runners cheated and did not complete their routes. They were supposed to go back out to the cattle gate after they finished their last lap and they didn’t. They both ran from the trail straight to the finish line, yet they are Overall Female 1 and 2 for Day 3. Meanwhile, no one is looking at consistent times, the timing mat with the laps and making adjustments to the results. I was the first overall female for the road series and received absolutely NOTHING!
Last of the trail loops
To be honest, I really liked this series a lot. Excellent central support, an aid station or two, well marked and/or advised courses, and the concept of four half marathons … MORE
To be honest, I really liked this series a lot. Excellent central support, an aid station or two, well marked and/or advised courses, and the concept of four half marathons in four states is way cool. If I didn’t have so many other states to check off, I’d come back. I love high desert.
Awesomeness!! Amazing landscape!!
Not a fast course being on trails but trading off time for unbelievable scenery was a no brainer! End the end on the last day you realize you met everyone … MORE
Not a fast course being on trails but trading off time for unbelievable scenery was a no brainer! End the end on the last day you realize you met everyone on the trail at least twice a day for four days in a row! Great comradery for sure!
New Mexico Day 4 - Quad Keyah
I ran this race on Dec. 4, 2022. It was Day #4 in the Four Corners Quad Keyah. The final day followed much the same trails as Day #1 (Arizona), … MORE
I ran this race on Dec. 4, 2022. It was Day #4 in the Four Corners Quad Keyah. The final day followed much the same trails as Day #1 (Arizona), but we are told the race director changes the route a little bit each year. On this day the trails weren’t as windy as Day #1, but at certain points the wind was substantial. As this race was the final in the series, there was more of a celebratory vibe, with a full meal available for runners (it was Navajo tacos, with meat and veggie option). Yum! See my review for Day #1 – Arizona for more details on the whole race series.