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Vacation Races – Zion Ultras 2024

April 13 - April 14

scenery at zion ultras and trail half marathon

Zion Ultras and Trail Half Marathon is an amazing opportunity to mix a Spring vacation in the stunning Zion National Park and throw in an epic Ultra Trail event!  Zion Ultras comprises of a 100 Mile, 100K, 50K, and a Half-Marathon. The 100 Mile Ultra is a qualifier event for the prestigious  UTMB World Series and the Western States 100.   The event is produced by Vacation Races, who pride themselves on producing meticulously organized running events at the world’s most breathtaking destinations. Zion Ultras and Trail Half Marathon is considered by our Strambecco staff to be one of the Best Trail Running Events in the Southwest.

Event & Course Info

Each route spans some of earth’s most scenic mesas and desert trails. Each distance includes unique vistas of the thousand-foot sandstone cliffs of Zion National Park. Seeing the sun rise and set over these towering cliffs is hard to beat. The 100 Mile Ultra has a rolling start on a double-track dirt road towards Gooseberry Mesa, a beautiful single-track trail section that begins at mile 5.2. There is a mix of uphill and downhill trail loops with creek crossings and even extremely steep, rocky descents where trekking roles are recommended, or ropes are placed to assist in the downhill. The most popular trails within the course include Hurricane Rim loop, Smith Mesa climb, Guacamole Trail, and Mondo Z climb. This route is marked with pink ribbons that racers must finish in 36 hours and has a total of 21 aid stations; 16 full and five water-only.

The 100K course heads west on a double-track dirt road toward Gooseberry Mesa until you hit the Goosebump Aid Station (mile 5.2). 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 its surrounding areas.  The 50K course heads west on a double-track dirt road toward Gooseberry Mesa until you hit the Goosebump Aid Station (mile 5.2). From here, you will begin running on one of the more iconic trail sections of this course- Gooseberry Mesa.  The Trail Half Marathon course heads west on a double-track dirt road toward Gooseberry Mesa until you hit the Goosebump Aid Station (mile 5.2). From here, you will begin running on a modified portion of the iconic Gooseberry Mesa Trail.

Awards presented at the finish line include a finisher medal and specialty awareness for each course. The 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.

Area Accommodations & Things to Do

Experience the epitome of comfort and hospitality in Apple Valley, UT, with our curated selection of the best lodging options in the area. From charming bed and breakfasts offering a personalized touch to modern hotels providing top-notch amenities, our accommodations cater to every traveler’s preferences. Immerse yourself in the rustic beauty of Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort. Nestled on the outskirts of Zion National Park, this resort offers a variety of lodging options, from cozy cabins to spacious vacation homes. Discover a haven of luxury at the Desert Pearl Inn. Located in the heart of Springdale, this riverside retreat provides elegant accommodations with stunning views of the surrounding red rock cliffs. Elevate your stay at the Cliffrose Springdale, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton. Boasting a prime location along the Virgin River, this boutique hotel offers a blend of sophistication and natural beauty.

As you explore the natural wonders of Zion National Park, your culinary journey is equally bound to be a delight with an array of dining options available in the charming town of Springdale and its surroundings. Indulge your taste buds in the savory offerings at Oscar’s Cafe, a local favorite in Springdale. Known for its hearty Southwestern cuisine, Oscar’s serves up delicious burgers, sandwiches, and Mexican specialties. Or quench your thirst and savor craft brews at Zion Canyon Brew Pub. This lively establishment not only offers a selection of handcrafted beers but also serves up a menu of pub-style favorites.

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of southwestern Utah, Zion National Park stands as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of activities that celebrate the region’s natural wonders. The iconic Angel’s Landing hike challenges adventurers with a thrilling ascent to unparalleled views of the canyon, while The Narrows beckons explorers to wade through the Virgin River, surrounded by towering sandstone walls. For the more adventurous, canyoneering in Zion is an unparalleled experience. Engage in guided excursions through slot canyons like The Subway or Keyhole Canyon, where you’ll navigate narrow passages, rappel down sandstone walls, and discover hidden oases.

Related Events

Vacation Races produce several UTMB World Series and Western States qualifiers races, including Zion Ultras, Antelope Canyon Ultras, and Bryce Canyon Ultras. UTMB World Series is the ultimate global trail running series uniting the sport’s biggest stars and amateur runners through a leading international event series in the most stunning locations.  The UTMB World Series gives all trail runners a chance to experience UTMB events worldwide, with 25 events taking place across Asia, Oceania, Europe, and the Americas in 2022. It is the only place runners can begin their quest to UTMB Mont-Blanc, home of the prestigious UTMB World Series Finals.

The Western States 100 is the grandaddy of ultra-running events.  It is an epic 100-mile trail run from Olympic Valley to Auburn, CA, in one day on the last weekend of June. It is the world’s oldest 100 trail race, starting in 1974 as one of the ultimate endurance tests. Over the course, runners will climb more than 18,000 feet and descend 23,000 feet.  See the dedicated Western States Endurance Run website for details on the lottery process, training, support, and volunteer opportunities. Participants must qualify for the race within two years and enter the lottery. If you are selected as part of the lottery, you are officially sent details to register within two weeks. If not completed in time, the registration will be available to runners on the waitlist of 50-75 people.  Nearby qualifying races include Black Canyon Trail Run, Moab Trail Marathon & Half Marathon, and Canyon Endurance Runs. Register and plan for the ultimate experience that will challenge your endurance.

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