NAATSISAAN TRAIL RACES
Navajo Mountain, Utah
Saturday October 31, 2026
START TIMES:
- Ultra @ 7:00 a.m.
- 10-miler @ 10:00 a.m.
- 5K @ 3:00 p.m.
Welcome runners to the Naatsisaan Trail Races! These races at Navajo Mountain offer unique courses in one of the most beautiful spots on Dine’ Bikeyah.
REGISTRATION
Online registration for the Naatsisaan 10-Miler and Naatsisaan Ultra is open through noon on Friday of race week. The 5K registration will remain open online through Friday noon and on-site Saturday. More details and registration can be found on the RunSignUp registration page.
COURSE & CHECKPOINTS
The 10-miler and 50K from Navajo Mountain High School traverse challenging and stunning landscapes, including dirt roads, old doubletrack, and trails. The route arcs around Lost Mesa, offering dramatic views from the northeast side of the mountain. Runners will climb above Navajo Begay, along the 2006 fire site, and into Cha (beaver) Canyon, before heading back to the high school. A digital trail guide map is available.
The non-competitive 5K trail race is a scenic and tough run on local dirt roads. Awards will be given for overall and age-group categories. The 5K course starts and ends at Navajo Mountain H.S., providing a scenic and challenging route.
Aid stations will be equipped with Honey Stinger energy gels, salty, sweet, and high-carb foods, medical support, communication, and fluids. The course is marked with pin flags, cairns, and some signage. Runners are advised to study the course map beforehand.
Runner Responsibilities: Be prepared for extreme weather conditions and have appropriate gear. Rain gear and footwear are crucial. Hypothermia and heat issues are potential threats in the high desert in the fall. Runners must be prepared for such conditions. Aid stations will provide ample fluids, but bring your own hydration system.
AFTERNOON CELEBRATION
A community cook-out will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the high school, with a live music stage. The 5K race/run begins at 3:00 p.m., followed by truck-or-treating near the finish line.
LODGING/CAMPING
Rustic camping is available on the grounds of Navajo Mountain High School, near the start and finish line. Camping includes access to restrooms and showers. Motels are available in Kayenta, Tuba City, and Page, Arizona (approx. two hours away).
WEATHER
Weather in the Navajo Mountain area can be very volatile. Be prepared for rapid changes, including rain, wind, snow, and cold. The mountain section may be windy and cold, with a higher chance of snow/rain. Heat issues are less likely but still possible in late October. Be aware of your surroundings and prepared for extreme weather and trail conditions.
AWARDS
Overall and age-group awards will be presented in the Ultra and 10-miler events. All finishers will receive a finisher’s medal.
The Naatsisaan Trail Ultra and the Navajo Parks Race Series are organized by NavajoYES in collaboration with Navajo Mountain High School and Navajo Parks & Rec. Sponsorship and logistical support are provided by Utah Navajo Health System, Naatsisaan Community School, the Naatsisaan Chapter, the Navajo Rangers, and Navajo Nation EMS.
CONTACTS
- Tom: 928.429.0345; [email protected]
- www.navajoyes.org
- Josh/Rocky Mountain Timing (registration/timing): [email protected]
- www.navajoyes.org
- www.facebook.com/NavajoYES