About This Race
Part of the UTMB World Series, the Chihuahua 38K takes runners into the dramatic landscapes of northern Mexico's Copper Canyon region. This mid-distance option offers a substantial trail challenge that's become popular among runners seeking international race experience with the organizational standards of the UTMB brand. The course explores the high desert terrain surrounding Chihuahua, where the Tarahumara people have run these mountains for centuries. The 38-kilometer distance positions this race as an accessible entry point into the Chihuahua event weekend, which includes longer ultra options. Runners experience enough trail to test pacing and endurance while avoiding the multi-day recovery often required by 50K and beyond. The mixed terrain demands attention and adaptability, though specific elevation data isn't currently available to characterize the climbing profile. The race draws both Mexican runners and international participants attracted by the UTMB designation and the opportunity to run in a culturally rich region less traveled than more established ultra destinations. Post-race, the colonial city of Chihuahua offers cultural exploration, while the nearby Copper Canyon system provides context for the extraordinary running traditions of this part of Mexico.
The route traverses mixed terrain characteristic of the Chihuahua high desert, combining trail surfaces with technical sections that require careful footing. Specific course details including elevation profile, aid station locations, and cutoff times are managed through the official UTMB World Series registration and runner materials. The technical nature of certain sections suggests this isn't simply a runnable fire road course, though the exact balance of terrain types varies year to year based on course design.
Elevation Profile
Elevation profile estimated from terrain data. Actual course may differ.
The course gains 462m over 38km, with the steepest section between km 60–km 60.
Location
Practical Info
High desert conditions with significant temperature swings between day and night; races typically held in cooler months to avoid summer heat extremes common to Chihuahua.
Chihuahua city offers various lodging options from budget hotels to more upscale accommodations; many runners base themselves in the city for easy access to race logistics and pre-race amenities.
Best For
Notable Features
This race brings the UTMB World Series to Mexico's Copper Canyon region, home to the Rarámuri (Tarahumara) people whose running culture has inspired distance runners worldwide. The event offers international runners a chance to experience northern Mexico's high desert landscapes and rich running heritage under the organizational framework that defines UTMB events. The surrounding Copper Canyon system, larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon, provides extraordinary context for a trail running destination.