Ocotillo Trail Endurance Challenge 2026

Description

We are so excited to be back for our second year!

Located in the beautiful Southwestern Chihuahuan Desert, this race takes you through the canyon south of the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens on State Park and city land. Open to runners, hikers, ruckers, and walkers, you can participate in 1 of 3 challenges: 1 hour, 4 hour, or 8 hour challenge. Participants will have their selected time frame to complete as many 2-mile trail loops (out-and-back) as possible or desired. Carlsbad Roadrunners will provide support including 2 aid stations; 1 at the half-way point, and 1 at the bottom of the hill. If you have been wanting to attempt a longer distance, or even complete an ultra, this event is for you! Bring your family and friends to support you as you complete the Ocotillo Trail Endurance Challenge.

Note: Please continue to check our Facebook Page - Carlsbad Roadrunners, for the most current and up to date event information.

Event Location: Upper Parking lot at SENMC (32.442401, -104.266905) Carlsbad, NM 88220. - Please use available parking at SENMC (covered parking available) overflow is open at other campus parking lots and within reasonable walking distance). The race will be fully contained to the Ocotillo Trail. This is an approx. 2 mile (3.21 km) out and back trail with approx. 229 ft. (69.79 m) of elevation gain.

All race categories will start promptly at the designated race times listed below. Please allow plenty of time to arrive at the start line. If you are driving to the race, plan to arrive early. See parking information above. The past year had plenty of parking right at the start/finish line.

This race will have an official time start time with all categories beginning at 8 am. 1 hour: 8:00am (completed by 9am) 4 hour: 8:00am (completed 12pm) 8 hour: 8:00am (completed by 4pm) Relay teams will switch off as often as desired at the trailhead of the race.

Packet pick-up and registration will only be available on the morning of beginning at 7am - 7:45am

Race Bib Number Requirements: Each solo participant will receive a race bib number that must be worn on race day. Please DO NOT alter your race number in any way. Your bib number must be visible and worn on the front outside of all clothing during the entire race. Bib numbers are transferable by request and MUST be worn by the runner to whom it is assigned. Please reach out if a transfer is needed.

Medical staff members will be ready to assist you at any time. Radio communications personnel will be positioned at the 1 mile mark on the course.The event officials have the right to withdraw any runner from the race who appears distressed or at risk. You will be directed to the medical area at the finish line if you have a health or medical problem. Note: If you cannot finish the race for any reason, please notify a race official of your bib number so medical personnel know.

This is a timed event and awards will be given to the top finisher (male, female) with the most distance covered in their respective events determined by gun time. The first place team for the 4 hour and 8 hour relay events will not be determined by gender or whether the team is co-ed, but based on total distance. Proceeds:

The event proceeds (outside of resulting race costs) will be donated to a local Carlsbad charity. Please note: Should severe weather that creates dangerous conditions for participants cause cancellation of the race, there will be no refunds (but proceeds are going to a good cause!)