Grand Canyon Trail Marathon, Half-Marathon, & 5k Run/Walk
Join us on Saturday, October 25th in the beautiful Kaibab National Forest, steps from the stunning South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
Now in its 8th year, this event is produced by life-long runners who know the beauty of running, walking, and hiking through scenic and challenging terrain. Run or walk through the stunning Kaibab National Forest, nestled on the Coconino Plateau just a hop, skip, and jump away from the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon South Rim. Developed in partnership with the Town of Tusayan, the Tusayan Fire Department, the IMAX Visitor Center, the Kaibab National Forest, and other local community members. Together, we celebrate the invigorating joy and personal triumphs of trail running. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or a budding enthusiast, join us as we conquer challenges and bask in the beauty of our surroundings. Get set for a thrilling and challenging course that'll take you on a beautiful ride under a canopy of trees, past tree-lined cliffs, and under historic railroad tracks. Who knows, you might even be lucky enough to spot some of the local wildlife!
The race kicks off in Tusayan, Arizona, where you'll find the start/finish line and all the post-race festivities. The course is within the recently designated Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument. Once you've crossed the finish line, grab your coveted souvenir medal, relax at the beer garden, and check out the artisan fair with locally-made jewelry, artwork, and other offerings from local and Tribal artisans. After you've recovered, head a few miles up the road to check out the scenery at the Grand Canyon. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience nature's majesty at its finest!
Event Details:
- Date: October 25th (Note: The text also mentions October 24, 2026, but recent updates point to Oct 25th for the most recent past event, and registration opens Oct 30, 2025 for a future event. Using the most recent past date for the event description.)
- Location: Grand Canyon Village, AZ
- Staging: IMAX Visitor Center, 450 AZ-64, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
What you get:
- Souvenir colorful long-sleeve race shirt for first 600 registrants
- Commemorative medallion and free beer for all finishers
- Chip-timed results with finish line video
- Fundraising pancake breakfast
- Local and Tribal Artisan Fair
- Local lodging & tourist discounts
- Race day photography by Damion Alexander
- Prize money, age group awards, and more!
Charity:
Donations support the Tusayan Fire Department and the Grand Canyon Food Pantry.
Terrain:
- Marathon/Half-Marathon: Half mile start on sidewalk, then 11.5 miles of challenging forest jeep roads, including rugged rocky sections, soft dirt, and hard-packed dirt forest roads, with a rolling final mile on the paved Arizona Trail path.
- 5k: Mostly paved Arizona Trail, with about one mile on hard-pack dirt forest road.
Difficulty:
The marathon and half-marathon course is challenging for many, with hills and rugged terrain. Top runners finish about 10 minutes slower than road races in the half-marathon.
Weather:
Most likely in the 30's and 40's early morning, with daytime highs hitting 60's - 70's.
Pets Allowed:
Pets are not allowed with participants on the course during the event.