Trail running course through singletrack trails in California, USA

The Canyons Endurance Runs by UTMB 25K

25K·2,789 ft gain·Auburn, California

mountaintechnicaltrailqualifierpoint to point

AI-generated image

Distance25K

Gain2,789 ft

DateApr 24, 2026

Difficulty2/5

About This Race

The entry-level distance offering runners a sample of the famous Western States Trail without the ultra commitment. Despite the shorter distance, participants still experience the historic Sierra Nevada foothills and gold rush country atmosphere.

Location

Loading map...

Practical Info

Nearest Airport

SMF - Sacramento International Airport

Accommodation

Auburn offers various lodging options as the historic "Endurance Capital of the World," with experience hosting major endurance events.

Best For

experienced trail runnersultra runnersmountain runners

Notable Features

The race traverses the most rugged and difficult section of the Western States Trail, featuring historic river crossings, wooden bridges, and gold rush-era settlements. As a Western States Golden Ticket race and UTMB World Series qualifier, it attracts competitive runners seeking entry to prestigious ultra events while offering an authentic Sierra Nevada mountain experience.

Other Distances at This Event

50K

The 50K route covers approximately 31 miles of the Western States Trail system, characterized by technical singletrack that demands attention to foot placement. Rocky sections and exposed roots require consistent focus, while the crossing of the Middle Fork American River provides a memorable mid-race feature that can involve wading depending on seasonal flow levels. The course strings together single-track segments used by Western States 100 competitors, offering runners a taste of that legendary route's technical character in a more compressed format.

100K

The route follows a challenging out-and-back configuration through the Sierra Nevada foothills between Auburn and Michigan Bluff. Runners encounter the full spectrum of Western States terrain: exposed fire roads through oak and manzanita, technical singletrack requiring careful foot placement, and canyon crossings that test both climbing power and descending control. The course crosses multiple aid station locations twice, allowing crew access at strategic points and giving runners mental waypoints to manage the distance. While specific elevation figures aren't confirmed in available data, the terrain profile mirrors the relentless nature of the Western States course. The route never allows for sustained flat running, instead demanding constant adjustment between climbing and descending through terrain that becomes increasingly technical as fatigue accumulates. Footing varies from smooth dirt to embedded rock, with the latter sections requiring focused attention even from experienced trail runners.

100 miles

The route follows much of the Western States Trail, starting and finishing in Auburn. Runners navigate varied terrain including narrow singletrack through oak and pine forests, exposed fire roads with limited shade, and technical sections along river canyons. The course is well-marked but requires attention, particularly during night hours when familiar trails can feel disorienting.