Trail running course through singletrack trails in New Mexico, USA
Sierra Vista Trail Runs

Sierra Vista Trail Runs — 50K

50K·10,118 ft gain·Las Cruces, New Mexico
ultra50k

AI-generated image

Distance50K
Gain10,118 ft
DateMar 2026
Difficulty3/5

About This Race

The 50K represents the premier challenge at Sierra Vista, taking runners deep into the desert backcountry for a true ultramarathon test. This distance demands both physical endurance and mental resilience as it explores the more remote sections of the trail system. The course provides experienced ultrarunners with technical terrain and sustained effort over varied desert topography.

The courses run 99% on desert singletrack trail, starting at the Sierra Norte trailhead off Dripping Springs Road. All races begin at the northern terminus of the Sierra Vista Trail system. The 50K, half marathon, and 1-mile fun run follow out-and-back routes, while the 5K and 10K combine out-and-back sections with loops on both the Sierra Vista and La Maria trails. The terrain is characteristic Chihuahuan Desert with rolling hills, scattered technical sections, and expansive views of the surrounding basin.

Elevation Profile

Elevation profile estimated from terrain data. Actual course may differ.

The course gains 10,118 ft over 31 miles, with the steepest section between mile 5–mile 5.

Location

Aid Stations

1 stations along the course

10K Station

—

water, electrolyte, food

1 station for 10K distance

Practical Info

Weather

Early March typically offers ideal desert running conditions with cool morning temperatures in the 40s-50s F, warming to comfortable 60s-70s F by mid-day.

Nearest Airport

ELP - El Paso International Airport

Accommodation

Las Cruces offers numerous hotel options. The race start is approximately 8.5 miles east of I-25, accessible via University Ave/Dripping Springs Road.

Best For

Desert trail enthusiastsCommunity-minded runnersFirst-time ultrarunners (50K)Multi-distance family events

Notable Features

This race stands out for its strong community focus and environmental stewardship. As the primary fundraiser for the Southern New Mexico Trail Alliance, every registration directly supports local trail maintenance and advocacy. The event encourages shoe donations for homeless services and maintains affordable pricing to keep trail running accessible. The desert setting provides a unique southwestern trail running experience with excellent March weather conditions.

Other Distances at This Event

5K

394 ft gain

The courses run 99% on desert singletrack trail, starting at the Sierra Norte trailhead off Dripping Springs Road. All races begin at the northern terminus of the Sierra Vista Trail system. The 50K, half marathon, and 1-mile fun run follow out-and-back routes, while the 5K and 10K combine out-and-back sections with loops on both the Sierra Vista and La Maria trails. The terrain is characteristic Chihuahuan Desert with rolling hills, scattered technical sections, and expansive views of the surrounding basin.

10K

738 ft gain

The courses run 99% on desert singletrack trail, starting at the Sierra Norte trailhead off Dripping Springs Road. All races begin at the northern terminus of the Sierra Vista Trail system. The 50K, half marathon, and 1-mile fun run follow out-and-back routes, while the 5K and 10K combine out-and-back sections with loops on both the Sierra Vista and La Maria trails. The terrain is characteristic Chihuahuan Desert with rolling hills, scattered technical sections, and expansive views of the surrounding basin.

Half Marathon

2,575 ft gain

The courses run 99% on desert singletrack trail, starting at the Sierra Norte trailhead off Dripping Springs Road. All races begin at the northern terminus of the Sierra Vista Trail system. The 50K, half marathon, and 1-mile fun run follow out-and-back routes, while the 5K and 10K combine out-and-back sections with loops on both the Sierra Vista and La Maria trails. The terrain is characteristic Chihuahuan Desert with rolling hills, scattered technical sections, and expansive views of the surrounding basin.