Cactus to Cloud Sky Race

The Cactus to Cloud Sky Race begins in the desert at Oliver Lee State Park in Southern New Mexico, ascending into the Sacramento Mountains. The primary event is a point-to-point 50K trail run featuring nearly 9,000 feet of elevation gain. A 10-mile option is also available, offering the same desert-to-mountain ascent in a shorter distance. Both distances gain approximately 5,000 feet to reach the Sunspot Solar Observatory, marking the finish for the 10-mile race. The 50K continues for over twenty miles along the Rim Trail, maintaining an elevation between 8,000 and 9,000 feet before concluding in downtown Cloudcroft. This event is noted as the first and only mountain race in Southern New Mexico. It operates without disposable cups to minimize waste, requiring all participants to carry a bottle or hydration system for aid station refills. Proceeds benefit Cloudcroft student athletes, with post-race meals provided by the Cloudcroft High School culinary arts program.