Kessel Run Ultra 2026

Kessel Run Ultra is a high-desert trail race in Fruita, Colorado, held in November as part of the Mad Moose Events calendar. It offers 10 Mile, 20 Mile, 50K, 40 Mile, and 50 Mile options, allowing runners to select from a challenging singletrack run to a full ultramarathon. The start and finish are located across from the 18 Road Parking area in Fruita, with dedicated event parking nearby. Every distance begins on fast, flowing singletrack before encountering the steep rises and drops of Zippity-Do-Da Trail. The longer courses ascend switchbacks to the rim above the Grand Valley, offering views toward the San Juan Mountains and Colorado National Monument. The 50 Mile route gains 5,177 feet while remaining between approximately 5,031 and 5,541 feet in elevation. Even the 10 Mile course features 1,086 feet of climbing. The event is cupless; runners must carry a bottle, bladder, or reusable cup for hydration at the start/finish and aid stations.