Hood Mesa Trail Run

Prepare to discover the captivating desert landscape of Farmington, New Mexico, at the Hood Mesa Trail Run on Saturday, May 16, 2026. This invigorating event, hosted in the scenic Lions Wilderness Park, offers three distinct distances—15 miles, 9 miles, and 5 miles—making it an ideal challenge for runners of all experience levels.

The Hood Mesa Trail Run takes participants through the breathtaking Hood Mesa Area on what are described as "flowy trails," promising both scenic beauty and exhilarating challenges. Runners on the 15-mile course will experience a notable 1,288 feet of elevation gain, while the 9-mile route features 811 feet, and the 5-mile trek includes 293 feet of elevation gain, providing a diverse trail experience for each distance. Typical race day conditions in mid-May present comfortable highs around 76°F and lows around 43°F, with a minimal 2% chance of precipitation, creating favorable running weather.

As the second edition of this exciting event, the Hood Mesa Trail Run is quickly establishing itself as a must-do in the region for those seeking an engaging trail experience amidst stunning natural backdrops. The races kick off with the 15-mile at 7:00 AM, followed by the 9-mile at 7:05 AM, and the 5-mile at 7:10 AM, allowing for a staggered start and a lively race morning atmosphere. Packet pickup is conveniently available the day before, Friday, May 15, at Southwest Runners Store, or on race morning at Lions Wilderness Park.