Grand Canyon of the South

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Virginia's Breaks Interstate Park as you take part in the Grand Canyon of the South Ultras, an extraordinary trail running experience that celebrates the grandeur of one of America’s most captivating natural landscapes. Nestled on the Virginia side of this picturesque park, runners will traverse a diverse and challenging terrain known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, expansive overlooks, dense forests, and miles of singletrack trails.
The event offers four distinct race distances to cater to all levels of experience:
- Morning 10K: Start your day early with the Morning 10K at 9:00 AM. This scenic run introduces runners to some of Breaks Interstate Park's most iconic vistas, including rolling mountain terrain and forested trails that wind through lush greenery and offer stunning canyon views.
- Sunset 10K: As the sun begins its descent over the horizon, join the Sunset 10K at 5:30 PM. This evening run provides an unforgettable experience as runners witness the sky painted in hues of gold and orange, casting a magical glow across the rugged terrain.
- Double 10K (20K): For those who want to savor every moment, the Double 10K combines both the Morning and Sunset runs. Participants will enjoy two vastly different experiences: morning exploration amidst crisp mountain air followed by an evening journey bathed in golden light.
- 50K: The crown jewel of this event is undoubtedly the Grand Canyon of the South 50K starting at 8:00 AM. This grueling yet rewarding course takes runners through a diverse trail network featuring dramatic elevation changes, rocky sections, and breathtaking overlooks that showcase the park's rugged beauty.
Beyond the race itself, Breaks Interstate Park offers an array of family-friendly activities to make your visit memorable:
- Lodging Discounts: Registered participants receive a 10% discount on lodging within the park.

- Camping: Camp under the stars and enjoy easy access to all race-related activities while immersing yourself in nature.
- Water Park & Lake Activities: Dive into summer fun with seasonal water parks, fishing opportunities, paddle boat rentals, playgrounds, picnic areas, scenic overlooks for hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and more.
Post-race relaxation is available at the park's restaurant where you can savor delicious meals while taking in panoramic canyon views. The event organizers are committed to fostering a welcoming environment that promotes local beauty and culture, ensuring runners not only challenge themselves but also connect with nature and the community.
Join us for an unforgettable adventure as we celebrate the inaugural Grand Canyon of the South Ultras at Breaks Interstate Park. Experience towering cliffs, breathtaking overlooks, mountain trails, and the warmth of Southwest Virginia’s welcoming spirit.
The event policies are available on the SWVA Running website, providing detailed guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.