When is Jemez Mountain Trail Runs?

Jemez Mountain Trail Runs takes place on May 9, 2026. That's in 3 weeks.

Where is Jemez Mountain Trail Runs located?

Jemez Mountain Trail Runs is held in Los Alamos, New Mexico, United States.

What distances are available at Jemez Mountain Trail Runs?

Jemez Mountain Trail Runs offers the following distances: 50M, 50K, 15M.

What is the typical weather for Jemez Mountain Trail Runs?

Based on historical data, you can expect temperatures between 41°F and 66°F on race day. There's approximately a 5% chance of precipitation.

Jemez Mountain Trail Runs (15M-50M) - May 9, 2026 | Los Alamos, NM

Prepare for an unforgettable challenge in the heart of northern New Mexico at the Jemez Mountain Trail Runs on May 9, 2026. Setting off from Los Alamos, this acclaimed event offers three formidable distances: a 50-Mile, 50-Kilometer, and 15-Mile race, each promising a test of endurance amidst breathtaking landscapes. The Jemez Mountain Trail Runs has earned a reputation as a very difficult course, featuring highly technical trails and substantial elevation changes.

Runners in the 50K and 50M events will face extremely steep climbs and descents, navigating high altitudes that range from 7,000 to over 10,000 feet above sea level, with the 50K alone boasting over 6,000 feet of total elevation gain. The 15-mile course, while shorter, still climbs to an impressive 8,800 feet. The terrain presents natural obstacles such as scree fields, stream crossings, and fallen trees, demanding focused footwork and seasoned trail running experience. While typical race day conditions in early May see highs around 66°F and lows near 41°F with only a 5% chance of precipitation, runners should be prepared for potential weather extremes, including heat, cold, rain, snow, lightning, and wind, as experienced in past years.

What truly sets the Jemez Mountain Trail Runs apart is its stunning backdrop. Participants will traverse wooded, rocky forests, open meadows, and mountain ridges that offer expansive views of geological wonders like the Valles Caldera and majestic peaks like Caballo Mountain. The races start and finish at the Posse Lodge on North Mesa in Los Alamos, fostering a strong community atmosphere. Aid stations are numerous, though some stretches can exceed five miles between stops, and this is a cupless event, so runners must carry their own hydration systems to refill. Reviewers consistently call it an "epic but difficult course" and "the toughest 50K" they've ever done, highlighting its beautiful yet challenging nature. This event is not just a race; it's an immersive journey through the rugged beauty of the New Mexico wilderness, designed for those seeking a true mountain ultra experience.