About This Race
The West Texas Ultra unfolds across the remote expanse of Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, where the dramatic landscape of the Texas Panhandle creates a distinctive ultrarunning experience. This race series offers distances from 10K to 50 miles, all following the same single-track trail system that showcases the rugged beauty of West Texas terrain. The course begins and ends at the South Turkey Creek Trailhead in Fritch, utilizing 30 miles of unique trails that wind through this relatively unknown corner of Texas ultrarunning. The Friday night race options, including a 10K and a rucking division, add a social element to the weekend. Despite the zero elevation gain listed in the data, the terrain consists entirely of dirt single-track paths that offer technical challenges and scenic rewards. For runners seeking an authentic taste of West Texas trail running, this race provides access to terrain that few trail races explore. The remote location and smaller field size create an intimate racing atmosphere, while the multiple distance options accommodate runners across experience levels.
The entire 30-mile trail system starts and finishes at the South Turkey Creek Trailhead, with shorter distances utilizing portions of the same loop. The course follows dirt single-track trails through the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, providing runners with views of the unique high plains landscape of the Texas Panhandle. The terrain is described as 100% paths, suggesting technical single-track running throughout.
Elevation Profile
Course Map
Route shown is approximate and for illustration purposes.
Practical Info
Mid-April weather in the Texas Panhandle can be variable, with potential for warm days and cool mornings, and possible wind exposure on the open plains.
AMA - Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport
Fritch is a small town with limited lodging options. Amarillo, approximately 45 minutes away, offers more extensive accommodation choices.
Best For
Notable Features
The West Texas Ultra stands out for its remote setting within Lake Meredith National Recreation Area and its minimalist race philosophy, offering no traditional aid stations and requiring runners to be entirely self-sufficient. The race provides an authentic desert trail running experience in one of Texas's most distinctive landscapes, far from urban centers and closer to the raw character of the American Southwest.