Deadman Peaks Trail Run

The longest Deadman Peaks race covers 53 miles out and back on the Continental Divide Trail through the Rio Puerco Valley near Cuba, New Mexico. This November high-desert trail-running event offers distances from shorter trail runs up to the 53-mile ultra, accommodating various runners. The course is situated between approximately 6,350 and 7,400 feet, with the 53-mile route featuring around 6,300 feet of elevation gain across rocky, sandy terrain. The start is located off Highway 197, west of Highway 550, with the main route heading south before returning. Runners navigate faint single track, slickrock, jeep trail, sand, rock, rolling sections, short climbs, and several larger hills. The first aid station is at mile 9 on the CDT and County Road 197, offering crew access and drop bags. The route proceeds toward La Ventana Mesa, Deadman Peaks, and a crew-accessible turnaround aid station before runners retrace their path. The event originated in the early 2010s, drawing its character from the exposed New Mexico high desert rather than from crowds or urban landmarks.