Monument Valley Tribal Park, Monument Valley UT
Saturday, March 1st, 2025
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is located 23 miles northeast of Kayenta, Arizona and 20 miles south of Mexican Hat, Utah. The park straddles the Arizona/Utah border, and the races all start and finish in Arizona.
Packet pick-up will take place at the Monument Valley Visitor Center from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28 and again from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. before the 50K, and between 8:00-9:00 for the Half Marathon on Saturday.
The race is staged on very challenging routes, with the majority of miles on singletrack trail, dirt roads and the Valley Drive. The 50K race starts at 7:00 a.m. and there are two cut-offs for runners. The Half starts at 9:00 a.m. and there are no cut-offs.
The race begins with a loop on the new Sentinel Mesa Trail, which then connects with the Wildcat Trail, bringing runners out at the top of the Valley Drive Road at mile 4.5. From this point, runners travel on the Valley Drive Road, connecting with โthe Marlboro Routeโ and past North Window before leading them to 3 Sisters Aid Station at mile 9.95. From 3 Sisters, runners head back on the Valley Drive to the finish line at just under 13.5 miles.
The race begins with a loop on the new Sentinel Mesa Trail, which then connects with the Wildcat Trail, bringing runners out at the top of the Valley Drive Road at mile 4.5. From this point, runners travel on the Valley Drive Road, connecting with โthe Marlboro Routeโ and past North Window before leading them to Three Sisters Aid Station for the first of their three visits to Three Sisters at mile 9.95. Runners then complete a stunning and grueling 11-mile out and back to the top of Mitchell Mesa, returning to Three Sisters at mile 20.95. Runners then complete a 7.80 mile segment through the Backcountry area, which will include highlights of Totem Pole, Rain God Mesa, Sand Springs and The Cube. Runners arrive back at Three Sisters A.S. at mile 28.75, before beginning the final 3.5 miles back to the finish line at mile 32.25 miles.
The routes of all races are very scenic and challenging. Please study the course map route so that you know the route prior to the race. It is recommended that you develop a plan to meet your energy and hydration needs. There will be medical support throughout the course, including the awesome folks from Utah Navajo Health System, the Navajo Rangers and MV Fire. There will also be local live music along the course to keep you motivated.
There are well-stocked aid stations throughout the course, providing hydration, medical support and a variety of nutrition.
Drop bags may be utilized at the Three Sisters Aid Station. Drop bags should be left at the start line prior to the start of their race. Please clearly write your name and bib # on the drop bag. Drop bags will be returned to the finish throughout the afternoon. If using a drop bag, runners should place their bag in the โreturn to finish lineโ pile after their final use of the bag.
There will be portajohns spread throughout the course, including Three Sisters Aid Station. Please use common backcountry etiquette if using the restroom elsewhere.
This is a cup-less event so please plan to have a hand-held bottle or hydration pack for use throughout the day.
There are unique finisherโs medals for all finishers, plus special awards for the top finishers. There are overall awards for winners and age-group awards for top performers in the race.
Pacers may join their runner after arriving back at Three Sisters A.S. after the Mitchell Mesa climb and descent, which will be approximately mile 20.
The average March high temp in MV is 60, with an average low of 37. The weather in the high desert is variable and early spring weather can vary widely.
The closest hotel for race weekend is The Monument Valley View Hotel. You can reach them at 435-727-5555 for reservations. Other options include Gouldings Lodge and camping facilities nearby.
For additional information, please visit the race website at here.
Starting Line Map
Suggested Races
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