Kessel Run Ultra 50 Miler

2026

The Kessel Run Ultra 50 Miler takes place in November in Colorado's North Fruita Desert, featuring multiple loop segments that bring runners back through the start/finish area several times throughout the race. With around 5,200 feet of total elevation gain spread across the 50-mile distance, the climbing comes in manageable chunks rather than massive sustained efforts. The course starts on fast, flowing singletrack through high desert terrain before working toward the more technical sections, including the Zippity-Do-Da Trail with its steeper climbs and descents. Runners will move through varied desert landscapes with views of the San Juan Mountains and Colorado National Monument, though the focus stays on navigating the technical singletrack that Fruita is known for. The loop format means you'll become familiar with key trail sections, which can be helpful for pacing and navigation as fatigue sets in. Runners who enjoy technical singletrack and don't mind desert conditions will find this appealing, especially with November's cooler temperatures compared to summer desert racing. The multiple distance options mean there's energy from other runners throughout much of the day. Note that this is a cupless event, so you'll need to bring a reusable cup for aid stations.