Groovin' in the Aspens invites trail runners of all levels to explore Flagstaff's scenic trails. Held at Fort Valley Trailhead, this year’s edition offers distances ranging from 6K to 50K through some of Arizona's most stunning pine forests. ### Course Details The 6K route is designed for beginners and those looking for a relaxed run among the aspens, featuring smooth "green" trails that loop around the event expo area. This relatively flat course provides an easy introduction to trail running with minimal elevation gain. For runners seeking more of a challenge, the 10K, 20K, 30K, and 50K courses weave through a combination of single-track paths and jeep roads that wind their way up into the mountains. The 10K includes approximately 682 feet of elevation gain while the longer distances offer progressively greater climbs, with the 20K featuring around 900 feet of ascent. ### Race Day Experience Participants can pick up race packets at Kickstand Kafe on September 11th from noon to 4 PM or at the Fort Valley Trailhead starting at 6 AM on race day. The event kicks off early in the morning, with start times staggered by distance: - 20K/30K/50K: Start at 8:00 AM - 10K: Start at 8:15 AM - 6K: Start at 8:30 AM Aid stations will be strategically placed along the route, no more than seven miles apart. Runners can expect a variety of snacks and hydration options to keep them fueled throughout their run. ### Race Day Logistics Race day registration is available starting at 6 AM until 8 AM at Fort Valley Trailhead. Payment methods include cash, check, or credit card. Wheelchairs, strollers, and wagons are welcome but may encounter some challenging terrain due to the nature of trail running. All participants will receive a custom event T-shirt and finisher's medal upon completion. These items will not be mailed out for those who do not attend in person. The race concludes with cut-off times designed to ensure safety: - 6K/10K: Finish by 12 PM MST - 20K/30K/50K: Last lap starts at 2 PM MST Groovin' in the Aspens promises a day filled with scenic beauty, challenging terrain, and friendly competition. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to run through Flagstaff's breathtaking trails!
Races Offered
50K
Sep 13, 2026
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Distance —
50K
terrain
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Running
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07:00
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$135.00
50K
Sep 13, 2026
straighten
Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$135.00
10K
Sep 13, 2026
straighten
Distance —
10K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
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$80.00
20K
Sep 13, 2026
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Distance —
20K
terrain
Type —
Running
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08:00
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$95.00
30K
Sep 13, 2026
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Distance —
30K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
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$115.00
6K
Sep 13, 2026
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Distance —
6K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$65.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Flagstaff.
thermostatTemperature
11.3° / 23.8°
wb_sunnyFeels like
8.2° / 19.3°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
11h 27m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
0.7 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
11.5 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
43.8%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:09
nightlight
Sunset
18:31
About Flagstaff
Learn more about the host city, Flagstaff.
Flagstaff is a city of over 75,000 people (2019) near the San Francisco Peaks mountain range of northern Arizona and the Grand Canyon. At an altitude of 6,990 ft (2,130 m), Flagstaff and much of the surrounding region are substantially cooler than the low desert that dominates the southern part of the state. Though still dry by east coast standards, enough rain and snow falls in the area to allow a forest of ponderosa pine trees to cover the landscape. Winters tend to be cold, and heavy snowfall is expected on an annual basis.
