Vermejo Charcoal Burner - Gravel Run

Prepare for an extraordinary running experience at the Vermejo Charcoal Burner - Gravel Run, set for May 16, 2026, in Raton, New Mexico. This unique half marathon, spanning 13.1 miles, invites runners to traverse the breathtaking and exclusive 558,000-acre Vermejo Park Ranch, owned by Ted Turner and often described as a vast nature preserve. The course guides participants through a picturesque landscape of the Southern Rockies, featuring a mix of two-track ranch roads, rural dirt roads, and well-maintained gravel paths, all set amidst captivating wildlife and stunning scenery.

What truly sets this race apart is its distinctive historical connection; the journey begins and concludes at the only remaining historic charcoal ovens in New Mexico, offering a memorable backdrop to your achievement. Runners can expect strategically placed aid stations along the route, ensuring comprehensive support throughout the challenging yet rewarding course. Typical race day conditions in mid-May often bring pleasant highs around 70F and lows around 42F, with only an 8% chance of precipitation, creating ideal running weather.

The Vermejo Charcoal Burner has garnered a reputation as an incredible and stellar event, celebrating its third annual edition in 2026. Embrace the "burn" on this unparalleled half marathon, where the spirit of competition meets the unparalleled beauty of Northern New Mexico's wild expanses.