Grand Canyon Trail Marathon, Half-Marathon, & 5k Run/Walk

Race Info

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.

July 21 Update: Here is the most recent pre-race email newsletter that was sent to early registrants.

Local Partners:

We support Run Local. The Grand Canyon Trail Marathon is a joint partnership between the Town of Tusayan and Run Tucson, the premier local running company in Arizona.

Special thanks to the Tusayan Fire District, the IMAX Visitor Center, and the Kaibab National Forest.

Bring the Kids! Children and strollers are allowed in the 5k

Trail Marathon and Half-Marathon Terrain: 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. According to the National Park Service, the forest is characterized by ponderosa pine, with Gambel oak, New Mexico locust, mountain mahogany, elderberry, creeping mahonia, and fescue.

5k Terrain: 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 . . . but you never know what late October will bring at 7,000 feet.

Chair Athletes: The 5k would be challenging for chair athletes, while the marathon and half-marathon is on a rugged course not suitable for chair athletes.

Pets Allowed: We love pets but they cannot be with participants on the course during the event.

Want Training Advice? Contact RRCA-certified running coach Tia Accetta at tia@runtucson.net.