Table of contents
The Canyons Endurance Runs by UTMB is one of North America’s top long-distance mountain trail races. It’s part of the UTMB World Series and offers a path to both the UTMB Mont-Blanc World Final and the Western States 100 Golden Ticket.
Starting in Auburn, California, known as the “Endurance Capital” — this race challenges runners across technical terrain and big elevation gains. This guide covers registration, race distances, eligibility, gear, and key tips to help you prepare for the ultimate trail experience.
Race Distances & Course Overview
The Canyons Endurance Runs by UTMB typically takes place in late April, with the 2026 edition scheduled for April 24–25, 2026, in Auburn, California.
Multiple distances are offered, making the event accessible to a wide range of trail runners — from first-time ultrarunners to seasoned 100-mile veterans.
25K
The 25K starts and finishes in downtown Auburn. The course passes landmarks like No Hands Bridge and features roughly 850 meters of elevation gain. It’s runnable but not easy — a solid introduction to Auburn’s rolling terrain and canyon heat.
50K
The 50K follows sections of the American River Canyon and the historic Western States Trail, with approximately 1700 meters of elevation gain. Expect long climbs, exposed descents, and classic California singletrack.
100K
The 100K dives deeper into the Sierra Nevada foothills, stacking up around 3750 meters of elevation gain. This is where pacing, fueling, and hydration really matter. The technical terrain and long stretches between aid stations reward runners who stay patient and efficient.
100M / 161K
The flagship distance and one of the most sought-after 100-mile races in the U.S. With 5550+ meters of elevation gain, heat exposure, and extended sections of the Western States Trail, this course tests every part of an ultrarunner’s toolkit.
Registration & Eligibility
Registration for The Canyons Endurance Runs by UTMB 2026 opens through the official race website and closes on April 19, 2026 at 11:59 PM (PT), or earlier if the race sells out.
Key things to know:
- No race-day registration
- Online registration only
- Registrations made within 50 days of Race Day will not include personalized race materials
Entry Fees
| Distance | Standard Entry |
UTMB Cares Charity |
| 25K | $169 | $358 |
| 50K | $279 | $578 |
| 100K | $389 | $800 |
| 100M | $515 | $1030 |
Entry fees typically include race bib and timing, an official race T-shirt, a collapsible cup, fully stocked aid stations, medical support, a finisher medal, and a post-race meal.
Registration Changes & Deferrals
- Refunds & transfers: Not permitted
- Deferrals: One deferral allowed if requested before March 25
-
Distance changes:
1. Via email up to 45 days before race day
2. After that, changes may only be made in person at the race expo
3. No changes allowed on race day
Age & Qualification Requirements
- 25K: 16 years and older
- 50K / 100K / 100M: 18 years and older
No UTMB Index or prior qualification is required to register. However, selected distances count toward UTMB World Series Running Stones, and the race plays a major role in Golden Ticket qualification.
UTMB World Series & Western States Golden Ticket
The Canyons is an official UTMB World Series event. Finishers earn Running Stones, which can be used to enter the UTMB Mont-Blanc lottery.
In addition, the top three men and women in the 100K receive Western States 100 Golden Tickets. If a runner already holds a spot, the ticket rolls down to the next eligible finisher.
Mandatory Gear & Equipment Considerations
Longer distances: especially 100K and 100M — may require runners to carry mandatory gear. While the final list is always confirmed by official race announcements, common requirements include:
- Hydration pack or waist belt, capable of carrying sufficient water, calories, and essentials without excessive bounce on technical terrain
- Mobile phone for emergency contact and tracking
- Collapsible cups, as many aid stations do not provide disposable cups
- Adequate water capacity, typically via soft flasks or a hydration bladder
- Energy nutrition such as gels or bars that can be accessed on the move
- Wind or rain shell to handle rapidly changing canyon weather
Gear choices matter at The Canyons. Long climbs, heat exposure, and extended gaps between aid stations mean that hydration and fueling mistakes can quickly lead to early bonking—even for experienced runners.
* Always defer to the official race manual for final mandatory gear requirements.
Preparation Tips Before Race Day
The Canyons isn’t just another trail race. It’s a course that rewards runners who prepare with intention.
Before race week, focus on:
1. Register early — popular distances fill fast
2. Dial in your gear — hydration bladder setup, anti-chafe clothing, and pack fit matter over long hours
3. Study the course — elevation gain, technical terrain, and aid station spacing should guide your pacing and fueling strategy
4. Know the rules — mandatory gear, cutoffs, and key registration deadlines
When everything is sorted ahead of time, race day becomes simpler. You run. You adapt. You move forward—focused on the trail, your rhythm, and the experience that makes Auburn special.
Because at The Canyons, every mile earns its place.
