Prepare for a challenging and picturesque trail running experience at the Serengeti Trail Races, set to unfold on April 11, 2026, in Erda, UT. Celebrating its 9th annual running, this event offers a range of distances including a full Marathon (26.2M), Half Marathon (13.1M), 10K, and 5K, appealing to both novice and seasoned trail enthusiasts alike. Starting from the Bates Canyon Trail Head, located at the feet of the majestic Oquirrh Mountains, runners will explore the diverse Serengeti/Oquirrh Wave trail system.

The courses are meticulously designed to deliver a beautiful yet demanding experience, traversing a dynamic mix of technical ATV trails, rugged dirt roads, and scenic single-track paths. Runners will be treated to sweeping vistas of the Tooele Valley, the shimmering Great Salt Lake, and the distant Stansbury Mountain Range. The Marathon course, typically two loops of the Half Marathon distance, features significant elevation gains ranging from 4,000 to 4,600 feet, often including climbs up "Puke Ravine" and through Pole Canyon. The Half Marathon covers roughly 2,000-2,200 feet of elevation, while the 10K offers about 1,250 feet of climbing. Even the 5K is a true trail test, with around 745 feet of elevation gain. Aid stations are strategically placed and well-stocked to support runners throughout their journey.

The Serengeti Trail Races embody a "Race Simply" philosophy, focusing purely on the joy and challenge of the course itself, rather than extraneous frills. Each year, the routes are thoughtfully adjusted to keep the experience fresh and exciting, ensuring breathtaking scenery and engaging terrain. Typical race day conditions in April offer pleasant highs around 60°F and lows near 36°F, with only an 11% chance of precipitation, providing ideal weather for tackling the trails.