Vacation Races – Bryce Canyon Ultras 2026 is a scenic Utah mountain course that runs around the northern half and western edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau, offering spectacular views above and below the hoodoos. The race is run at high elevation, with most miles on this rugged course between 7,000 – 9,000 ft, which is one reason we at Strambecco consider this to be one of the Best Trail Running Race Events in the Southwest. The event is produced by Vacation Races, who pride themselves on producing meticulously organized running events at the world’s most breathtaking destinations.

The event is a qualifier event for both the UTMB World Series and the Western States 100. Bryce Canyon Ultras comprises four distance options, 50 Mile, 60K, 50K, and 30K, however organizers plan to offer the 100 mile option again in 2026.

Bryce Canyon National Park, a sprawling reserve in southern Utah, is known for crimson-colored hoodoos, which are spire-shaped rock formations. Hoodoos (irregular columns of rock) exist on every continent, but here is the largest concentration on Earth. Situated along a high plateau at the top of the Grand Staircase, the park’s high elevations include numerous life communities, fantastic dark skies, and geological wonders that defy description.

Awards presented at the finish line include a finisher medal and specialty awareness for each course. The Vacation Races – Bryce Canyon Ultras include special awards for the top three male and female finishers. There are aid stations throughout each course, a mix of water-only and full stations with food supplies and medical support. A finish line is a welcoming place with supporters, your fellow participants, and many amenities like a recovery area with food, beverages, and a medical tent.