The Palo Duro Trail Run returns to Palo Duro Canyon in Texas on October 17th, featuring a challenging course through the canyon's rugged terrain for its 41st year running. This event is known across the Southwest as THE SOUTHWEST'S ULTIMATE TRAIL RUN and attracts runners from various states eager to test their endurance against the unique trails of Palo Duro Canyon State Park. The race begins in early morning at Mack Dick Pavilion, located along Highway Park Road 5 near the canyon's main entrance. As participants set out on a looped course through varied terrain, they will encounter rolling singletrack paths and stretches with sand and rock that challenge both strength and agility. The start time is typically around sunrise, when temperatures can be chilly but are expected to warm up during race day. Organizers have been hosting this event since 1986 as a way to celebrate the natural beauty of Palo Duro Canyon while raising funds for local conservation efforts and promoting health within the community. With over four decades of history, the trail run has evolved from its origins as a road race into an iconic ultra-distance challenge on trails that wind through some of Texas' most dramatic landscapes. The course itself winds around various landmarks in the canyon park, including scenic overlooks and dense woodlands. Runners will face short but steep ascents and descents along this challenging terrain. Aid stations are well-stocked with a variety of food options to keep energy levels up during longer races like the 50K or 50 Mile Pacer event. Weather conditions on race day typically see temperatures ranging from around 18°C at dawn to highs near 30°C by afternoon, making it crucial for participants to manage hydration and clothing layers accordingly. With an average humidity of about 64% and minimal precipitation expected (about 2mm), the trails will likely be dry but could become dusty as more runners pass through.
50 Mile Pacer 80.5K • Start: 06:30:00
50 Miler 80.5K • Start: 06:30:00 • Fee: $140.00
50K 50K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $130.00
25K 25K • Start: 07:20:00 • Fee: $115.00
The Palo Duro Trail Run offers a range of distances including the grueling 50 Mile Pacer race, which requires pacing assistance on its final lap; the equally challenging yet solo-run 50 Miler at 80.5 kilometers with an entry fee of $140. A less daunting but still formidable option is the single 50K distance for $130, while those looking to experience a shorter version can opt for the 25K run priced at $115. Registration for all races must be completed through Ultrasignup: https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=135783. Entry fees are non-refundable and participants receive technical shirts upon registration completion. Packet pickup occurs on October 15th from 3-6 pm at Get Fit in Amarillo, or the following day from 3-6 pm at Sad Monkey Mercantile in Canyon. On race morning, runners should pick up their bibs between 6 am and start time at Mack Dick Pavilion's parking lot. Age requirements are not specified but participants must be capable of completing their chosen distance within designated cutoff times. First-timers might want to familiarize themselves with the course layout beforehand by reviewing maps available on the event website. The Palo Duro Trail Run in Palo Duro Canyon, Texas, offers runners a unique opportunity to challenge themselves against varied and demanding trails while enjoying some of the region's most beautiful scenery during mid-October.
Races Offered
50 Mile Pacer
Oct 17, 2026
straighten
Distance —
80.5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
06:30
sell
$0.00
50 Miler
Oct 17, 2026
straighten
Distance —
80.5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
06:30
sell
$140.00
50K
Oct 17, 2026
straighten
Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$130.00
25K
Oct 17, 2026
straighten
Distance —
25K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:20
sell
$115.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Palo Duro Canyon.
thermostatTemperature
18.5° / 29.5°
wb_sunnyFeels like
18.5° / 28.8°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 4m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
2.0 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
11.0 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
High
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.8)
humidity_mid
Humidity
64.9%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:25
nightlight
Sunset
18:51
About Palo Duro Canyon
Learn more about the host city, Palo Duro Canyon.
Palo Duro Canyon cuts through the High Plains of the Texas Panhandle, in the southern United States. It is a protected area, part of the Palo Duro Canyon State Park.
