The Zion Ultras & trail half marathon offers a challenging, scenic run through the Southern Utah desert, adjacent to Zion National Park. We offer multiple distances- a half marathon, 30K, 60K, 100K, and a 100-miler. The Half Marathon will start on Friday evening. The 100 Mile, 100K, 60k, & 30k will start on Saturday morning.
The 100 Mile course heads east on a fast downhill dirt road to Grafton Mesa Aid (mile 1.3). You may stop if you like, but you can also skip this stop and continue on the fast downhill run toward Wire Mesa.
Once you arrive at the Wire Mesa Aid Station (mile 3.2), you will begin your dayby running this incredible section of trail! Wire Mesa has great up close views of Zion and wonderful, very runnable trail conditions. There is not a lot of elevation variation, so take advantage of it. You will return to the Wire Mesa Aid Station (mile 10.4) before beginning your uphill trek back up the same dirt road toward Grafton Mesa Aid Station (mile 12.3).
Next up is Grafton Mesa Trail loop in a counterclockwise direction. This trail is a little more technical than Wire Mesa, though still very runnable with beautiful views to enjoy. After the loop, you will pass through Grafton Mesa Aid for a final time (mile 17.7) before the short- but steep section of dirt road back towards the start/finish line.
You can check in with your crew near the start/finish line at the Crew Access Point (mile 19). At that point head west on a double track dirt road toward Gooseberry Mesa until you hit the Goosebump Aid Station (mile 24.2). From here you will begin running on one of the more iconic trail sections of this course- Gooseberry Mesa. This is a beautiful single track trail section with amazing views of Zion and the beautiful areas surrounding it. Make sure and pay attention to the trail on this section. There will be a lot of single track mtn. biking trails that will be marked with white dots on the rocks. Even though most of the trail coincides with the white dots, there are sections where we will deviate to different trails. Our course will be marked with pink ribbons. So always follow the pink ribbons. This loop will be run in a counterclockwise direction. You will hit the next aid station Gooseberry Aid (mile 33) about half way through the loop.
Upon your return to your second pass at the Goosebump Aid Station (mile 36.8) you will then drop down off the mesa called Mondo Z. This is a VERY steep and rocky section. It’s recommended to use trekking poles to help you down this steep trail section, if you are comfortable using them. The Mondo Z Water Station (mile 38.2) will be set up near the bottom of the hill.
From here, you will traverse along the desert trails toward the Virgin Desert Aid Station (mile 44.8). These trails will be mostly hard-packed dirt and rarely used double track with some slight rolling hills– nothing very technical though it is very exposed and can be VERY hot.
Virgin Desert will the first and best place to pick up a pacer. From Virgin Desert, you will begin the Hurricane Rim loop. This is an awesome trail that is popular with the mtn. bikers in this area. Trail conditions are great! Hard-packed dirt with some great panoramic views. Hurricane Rim Water Station (mile XXX) will be a welcome place to fill your hydration containers as this area is super exposed and can be really hot as well. From there you will continue on to the Virgin Dam Aid Station (mile 53.4). This is a great trail overlooking the Virgin River in some areas as you skirt along the rim.
You will then come to the Sheep Bridge Water Station (mile 57.2). This will be a great opportunity to top off your water before crossing the highway/SR-9 (look both ways!) and climbing up onto Smith Mesa. This climb is on an old paved road that is only used by ranchers a couple times a year. The climb is challenging, but the views are amazing!
Near the top, you will reach Smith Mesa Aid Station (mile 61.7). This next section on Smith Mesa can be really tough. Especially if the cows have recently trampled through mud, then it hardens- watch your footing. Before dropping down off of Smith Mesa you will hit the Flying Monkey Water Station (mile 62.7). Flying Monkey is another steep and SUPER technical section. There will be a short section right after the water station where a rope is set up to help lower yourself down the steepest part.
From Flying Monkey, you will have a nice downhill trail run to the BMX Aid Station (mile 70.8). This is the next best place to pick up or change out a pacer. From there, you will make your way across Dalton Wash. Here you will find a small creek crossing (Some people prefer to take their shoes off before crossing to avoid running in wet shoes).
After crossing the creek, you will begin the steep climb up toward the Guacamole Trail. Most of this section is on a dirt road as you make your way up toward one of our favorite trail sections of this course. There are some event vehicles on this road, but it has a reputation of being a bit dusty, so be prepared. You will reach the Guacamole Aid Station (mile 76.6) and begin the Guacamole lollipop loop. Again, make sure and follow the pink ribbons. There is a lot of slickrock on this section too. It’s always a good idea to look ahead for the next pink ribbon. Upon returning to the Guacamole Aid Station (mile 83.3), you will drop back down the same hill to the BMX Aid Station (mile 89.1).
From BMX Aid, you will drop back down and cross back across SR-9. Once across the road, you will start making your way back across the desert toward Mondo Z. That same water station you hit after coming down from Goosebump earlier in the race will still be set up. Once again, it’s a good idea to top off your water before you climb the killer Mondo Z up toward Goosebump Aid (mile 94.2) for the third time. You will then head back on the same dirt road you started on toward the Finish area.
The Half Marathon course heads east on a fast downhill dirt road to Grafton Mesa Aid (mile 1.3). You may stop if you like, but you can also skip this stop and continue on the fast downhill run toward Wire Mesa.
Once you arrive at the Wire Mesa Aid Station (mile 3.2), you will begin run by covering this incredible section of trail at sunset! Wire Mesa has great up close views of Zion and wonderful, very runnable trail conditions. During golden hour, its magical. There is not a lot of elevation variation, so take advantage of it. You will return to the Wire Mesa Aid Station (mile 10.4) before beginning your uphill trek back up the same dirt road toward Grafton Mesa Aid Station (mile 12.3) and the finish line.
If you are a runner who likes to get their money’s worth, be sure to pack a head lamp, although you may not need it because in race day should be a full moon.
LESS
Loved the Zion 50k!
I’ve done multiple Vacation Races half marathons, and I have always loved how they put on a race. So for my first 50k it just made a lot of sense … MORE
I’ve done multiple Vacation Races half marathons, and I have always loved how they put on a race. So for my first 50k it just made a lot of sense to pick Vacation Races, and they did not disappoint. From packet pickup to the finish line everything was so well done. Following the trail did get a little difficult at times but we managed. And the ascent near the end of the Grafton Mesa loop was tough and definitely something one should be mentally prepared for. But overall I loved the course and the views. The food provided during and after the race were great and ALL of the volunteers were amazing. And of course the race shirt and medal are both great too
Gorgeous Gooseberry Views of Zion
This was my first 50k, and it certainly did not disappoint. The views from Gooseberry Mesa were unreal. The aid stations were well stocked with water, Gnarly, pickle juice, the … MORE
This was my first 50k, and it certainly did not disappoint. The views from Gooseberry Mesa were unreal. The aid stations were well stocked with water, Gnarly, pickle juice, the usual snacks and gels, and even some had quesadillas.
After the first loop around Gooseberry, there is a long trek back on the dirt road you started on, which was tough when it started to warm up, as it was also mostly a steady slight uphill climb. The loop around Grafton mesa was a bit challenging and technical. This was fun, but will definitely slow you down, followed by another uphill climb on a dirt road headed to the finish line.
There were plenty of camping, glamping, hotel or STR options nearby. I enjoyed exploring Zion and the surrounding area and can’t wait to come back.
I would 100% recommend this race to anyone looking for a challenging but scenic course.
Beautiful Course!
This is a great course. It has a little bit of everything, technical trails, some fast fire roads, views for days and some great single track. Do not overlook this … MORE
This is a great course. It has a little bit of everything, technical trails, some fast fire roads, views for days and some great single track. Do not overlook this one when planning your next race. I enjoyed it so much I’ll be returning for the 100M.
Gorgeous scenery but ...
Cons- the slick rock was more prevalent than I anticipated. There was many miles of runnable course, but between the slick rock the first loop and really technical parts in … MORE
Cons- the slick rock was more prevalent than I anticipated. There was many miles of runnable course, but between the slick rock the first loop and really technical parts in the parts on the last loop, (mile 28-30ish) I didn’t enjoy the course. Also, I feel the race directors have not really addressed the issues with getting lost on course. Other races I have done there were consistent markers every “X” distance. There didn’t seem to be any consistency in how far apart markers were set, so it was hard to know if you were lost of just in a long expanse without one. This complaint has gone back years, so it was frustrating it is still an issue. There are plenty of trees to put flags, it’s not just the rock sections.
I have done a lot of VRs, but I personally don’t care for the shirts. You can “buy” a cool design tshirt, but for the $ to register, I would like to receive a nicer tech shirt , a cotton shirt or lower the price of the race and ditch the giveaway shirt all together.
Post race area was kind of sad. There was food and a meal ticket but really not enough places for people to sit.
Pros- amazing aid stations and volunteers, lots of food options , and the views were gorgeous!
Easy parking!! That was great to park right at event- and good race communication. Nice bag drop options and Convenient drop bag mailing so you could leave prior to them getting back. Elevation was not a real issue, so not too difficult from that standpoint . The medals are very nice, pretty and unique
Get your head in the game
Wow, the views are amazing! The course is challenging but not too challenging. Lots of running and sandstone. Flying Monkey is a definite highlight as I rarely get to rappel … MORE
Wow, the views are amazing! The course is challenging but not too challenging. Lots of running and sandstone. Flying Monkey is a definite highlight as I rarely get to rappel during a race. The climb back up Gooseberry can break your heart and is the only section I cried, but that was in relief when I made it to the top. Stop and enjoy the night sky and listen to the frogs near the water. I even saw a shooting star….brilliant! I have a wonderful experience and I am in love with my handmade belt buckle. It is the prettiest one in my collection.
Excellent Introduction to 13.1
We were seeking a gentle and laid-back introduction to The 13.1 Club for our kiddo and Zion Ultras did not disappoint. From the jubilee of the Expo, to a volunteer … MORE
We were seeking a gentle and laid-back introduction to The 13.1 Club for our kiddo and Zion Ultras did not disappoint. From the jubilee of the Expo, to a volunteer shift of shirt distribution to race participants, to running the half marathon – the Zion Ultras weekend was an entire vibe filled with exuberant cheer. The dirt road 5-out and 5-back undulated at 5k. feet in altitude. It was perfectly paired with a more technical 3ish-mile loop around Gooseberry Mesa with spectacular scenery. Almost 2-weeks later and kiddo is still proudly wearing his race shirt at every opportunity and carrying his medal around to share his excitement with others.
The race could be ‘improved’ with the elimination of the uphill climb back to the finish line, but then where would the challenge be? The most unique aspect was the views from Gooseberry, or maybe the cow that tried to join in on the fun? We would recommend this race to anyone that is not madly in love with road running and/or anyone that likes to test their limits with challenges at higher altitudes.
Unforgettable Experience
Views were incredible, aid stations were absolutely perfect, and all the wonderful souls involved who volunteered and worked the race were the best you could ask for. I flew all … MORE
Views were incredible, aid stations were absolutely perfect, and all the wonderful souls involved who volunteered and worked the race were the best you could ask for. I flew all the way in from upstate NY and couldn’t have asked for anything better.
Most Beautiful Run I’ve Ever Done!
Be prepared to add at least 10 min to your finish time for taking in the beautiful scenery!! It is worth it!! Don’t miss the chance to be completely mesmerized … MORE
Be prepared to add at least 10 min to your finish time for taking in the beautiful scenery!! It is worth it!! Don’t miss the chance to be completely mesmerized by the beauty. Half way through the course there’s a bit of a rock scramble but it’s not too intimidating in fact it’s quite fun.
Most scenic race I have ever run!
It is truly a beautiful course! The vistas and overlooks are amazing! I did not enjoy running so long on the (park road/fire road) You had cars coming by constantly … MORE
It is truly a beautiful course! The vistas and overlooks are amazing! I did not enjoy running so long on the (park road/fire road) You had cars coming by constantly spinning dust and sand up ion your face, Once on the single track it was HEAVEN!
Zion race was beautiful!
This was my first ultra-marathon and this course was so scenic and beautiful. Overall, my time was slower than I thought it would be but I also enjoyed myself way … MORE
This was my first ultra-marathon and this course was so scenic and beautiful. Overall, my time was slower than I thought it would be but I also enjoyed myself way more than I thought I would.
Notes on the course: the first 10-15 miles of terrain was a lot of climbing up and down rocks, and the end of the race has a 5-mile loop that’s pretty tough but makes for a rewarding end.
The aid stations were great, they had water, snacks, gels, and hydration packets. All the race volunteers were nice and the race was put together very well.
Beautiful and brutal
The views are unmatched and the course really offers a challenge. Two great things! The aid stations offer a lot of variety and support. I did run out of water … MORE
The views are unmatched and the course really offers a challenge. Two great things! The aid stations offer a lot of variety and support. I did run out of water on the backside of Smith Mesa and suggested to the organizer an extra water station out there as lots of us were in the same position. This is my second time running the course as I did not finish the first time. Now that I’ve finished it, I want to come back and see if I can get a better time. I just keep coming back! It’s addictive.
Stunning Views Make the Pain Easier
One of the best organized races I have participated in, Vacation Races knows what they are doing. Super friendly volunteers both years I have done this race. Aid stations are … MORE
One of the best organized races I have participated in, Vacation Races knows what they are doing. Super friendly volunteers both years I have done this race. Aid stations are well stocked and well taken care of. Great views throughout the course with varying terrain. Climbs are condensed and challenging, the road climb is brutal in the heat of the day if you don’t plan your hydration. Fun event!
Gorgeous, well-organized adventure
Very well organized check-in, camping, and prep before race First 20 miles were a short dirt road and then on top of a large mesas is rolling lava fields - … MORE
Very well organized check-in, camping, and prep before race
First 20 miles were a short dirt road and then on top of a large mesas is rolling lava fields – incredible, sweeping views of the surrounding valley
Second 20 miles started with a steep descent into the surrounding valleys during the heat of the day. Rolling hills, river, and road section through a town.
Last 20 miles were a steep climb out and then loops around two large mesas with gorgeous views of surrounding mountains/rock formations during sunset
This event felt like a true adventure – almost no repeating miles and you see SOOO much
Like Running in a Postcard
The hardest part of the race was not stopping every 5 minutes to take pictures! The course was absolutely beautiful! The worst part of the course was the road at … MORE
The hardest part of the race was not stopping every 5 minutes to take pictures! The course was absolutely beautiful!
The worst part of the course was the road at the start and finish.
Great first 50K
This was my first 50K and I’m so glad that it was because the scenery was top notch, there were plenty of people to run with, and aid stations were … MORE
This was my first 50K and I’m so glad that it was because the scenery was top notch, there were plenty of people to run with, and aid stations were well stocked. I probably could have gotten by only carrying a water bottle. My only complaints were that aid stations were not exactly at the mile markers that they were said to be (usually within a mile though) and the course was hard to follow at times. There was a section on a mesa around mile 14 that was very confusing and there was a group of about 10-15 of us stumbling around looking for the next pink flag constantly. I mostly stayed behind other runners so I would stay on course. Overall, very well put on race and we would definitely do it again.
Beautiful backdrop but challenging!
This race really challenged me! It’s my 7th half marathon but first trail run. I live in Kansas so training for trail running is a bit difficult. But I finished! … MORE
This race really challenged me! It’s my 7th half marathon but first trail run. I live in Kansas so training for trail running is a bit difficult. But I finished! Running through Gooseberry Mesa was incredible; stopped to take some pictures. It’s just gorgeous. Highly recommend this race to challenge yourself!
Just wow!
This race gave you a tons of beautiful scenery, all along the course. The organisation is awesome, like you are the part of a big family. It was a really … MORE
This race gave you a tons of beautiful scenery, all along the course. The organisation is awesome, like you are the part of a big family. It was a really cool event. The difficulty of the course was really well balance and made it really accessible to any first timer.
Awesome Race
This was simply a well run race. Great swag and shirts, highly organized, great aid stations. This was my 3rd race with Vacation Races and they have all been great. … MORE
This was simply a well run race. Great swag and shirts, highly organized, great aid stations. This was my 3rd race with Vacation Races and they have all been great. Will continue to do Vacation Races events.
Fast fun course with some epic scenery!
Organization was seemless and the aid stations were stacked!! Beautiful medal or mug at the end (that was a bonus). The scenery running along the cliff edge was so serene … MORE
Organization was seemless and the aid stations were stacked!! Beautiful medal or mug at the end (that was a bonus). The scenery running along the cliff edge was so serene and stunning. There were a few segments among the rolling rocks that you could say were challenging to navigate, looking for the pink markers or the white painted dots on the ground. However in my opinion having some challenges along navigation make it more fun.
There was quite a bit of fire road running which to me was not that fun. It definitely made for a fast course however isn’t the most exciting thing to run. I enjoy the single track and being out there.
Overall the race was a blast and I would definitely do the 50k again.
What an Amazing Experience!!
I didn’t know what to expect for my first race ever and longer distance in a half marathon. I could have never imagined just how incredible the views and overall … MORE
I didn’t know what to expect for my first race ever and longer distance in a half marathon. I could have never imagined just how incredible the views and overall experience would be! I’m hooked and looking forward to my next race and hope to be able to run in the 50k next year!