GRAND CIRCLE RUNNERSUpdated Wednesday 2nd September
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Trail runners strung out along a singletrack path through the red rock hoodoos of Red Canyon, near Bryce Canyon
Grand Circle Trailfest

Race Day Guide

Grand Circle Trailfest

Three days. Three canyons. One basecamp.

Sep 30 – Oct 4, 2026 · Kanab, Utah · Bryce · Zion · Antelope Canyon
Welcome to the

Grand Circle

Festival HQ is at Jacob Hamblin Park in Kanab, Utah. You’ll check in here, pick up your race packet, find your tent, and settle in for three days of fun and finish lines. Each morning you head out to a different corner of the Colorado Plateau — the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, the mesa rims above Zion, and the slot canyons near Antelope Canyon — and each afternoon you come back to the same basecamp for food, recovery, music, and films.
“Be excellent to each other.”
— The Trailfest camping rule
This is red rock country: dry air, big temperature swings, high exposure, and three consecutive days of running. Pace yourself, hydrate more than you think you need to, and take the time to look up. Three adjacent National Parks, two National Monuments, Navajo Tribal Park land, and Lake Powell all sit within a couple of hours of camp. Every visitor here is a steward with a responsibility to protect and respect this landscape for the people who come next. Happy exploring! — The Vacation Races Team
Note to runners: All of the following information is subject to change. If changes occur due to unforeseen circumstances, adjustments will be made to satisfy local permitting requirements while still delivering a top-tier running experience. We will inform runners of any changes as soon as they are finalized so participants can comfortably prepare for their Vacation Races experience. All times shown are Mountain (MDT).
Race weekend

Schedule

RaceClinicsEntertainmentFood & drinkEssentials
Day 1 · ExpoWednesday, September 30
12:00 - 7:00 PM
Campground Check-In
At the booth by the baseball fields on the east side of the park.
12:00 - 6:00 PM
Expo & Bib Pickup
5:00 - 8:00 PM
Welcome Dinner
5:00 - 9:00 PM
Beer Garden Hours
6:00 – 7:30 PM
Keynote · Keira D’Amato
7:30 - 8:30 PM
Welcome Orientation · All Runners
New for 2026 — one orientation replaces the nightly RD reports. Time is subject to change and will be held after Q& A with Keira D'Amato.
10:00 PM
Quiet Hours Begin
Arriving in Kanab

Festival HQ & Expo

Everything starts at Jacob Hamblin Park in Kanab, UT. Wednesday is check-in day: pick up your bib at the expo, claim your campsite, and get settled before the welcome dinner. You’ll need your ID to collect your bib.
Jacob Hamblin Park map
Jacob Hamblin Park ↗
Race Expo & Bib Pickup
12:00 – 6:00 PM
Campground Check-In
12:00 – 7:00 PM

Good to know

  • ✦
    Expo, race info, merchandise, camp check-in, and the festival village all share the park.
  • ✦
    Bring a photo ID for bib pickup — and bring your own bag, our expo is bag-free.

Bib Pickup Options

At the Wednesday expo — recommended, at Festival HQ. Day 1 Start Line can’t make Wednesday? Bib pickup is also available Thursday morning at the Bryce Canyon start line — Your swag and shirt can be picked up back at festival HQ after the Bryce race. For a friend — bring a copy of their ID (printed or on a phone) or their QR-code confirmation email.

Getting Here & Parking

There’s plenty of parking at Festival HQ — along the length of the park and on the south side near the pool house. Please do not park in any spaces that are coned off as those are specifically reserved for Operations and Crew purposes. Most runners fly into St. George (1.5 hr), Las Vegas (3 hr), Salt Lake City (4.5 hr), or Phoenix (5.5 hr) and drive in. Coming from a specific airport? We’ve mapped the drive and the hikes worth stopping for along the way — see the road trip guides below.

Shuttles

There are two types of shuttle access at Grand Circle Trailfest. 1. Paid Shuttles from Trailfest HQ: This shuttle service brings participants from the Trailfest HQ in Kanab up to the start line each morning. These shuttles are a daily paid upgrade that was selected during registration. If you are interested in upgrading to this shuttle option for one or more days, you can add it on from within your registration in Let’s Do This. You may also have the option of buying a daily shuttle pass at the event. Please note that this option is limited and may sell out before the event begins. This shuttle costs $20/day. 2. The Free Shuttles to the Start Line: This shuttle service brings participants and spectators from the satellite parking lots each day to the starting line. Usually these shuttles take about 10-15 minutes one-way. There are no upgrades or reservations needed for these shuttles. They will also return you back to your vehicle after you cross the finish line. To add HQ shuttle tickets to your registration, follow the instructions here.

Volunteers

All volunteers should check in at the expo on Wednesday to receive instructions for their shifts — especially anyone volunteering at a start or finish line. During the event, look for team members wearing shirts labelled VOLUNTEER, STAFF, or CREW if you need assistance.
Sign up to volunteer
Road Trip In

There are four ways to get to Kanab, and every one of them is full of opportunities for adventure. Pick your airport and make a day (or two) of the trip to Kanab — tap a map below for the full-size version.

St. George · SGU · ~80 mi

St. George · SGU · ~80 mi

Las Vegas · LAS · ~200 mi

Las Vegas · LAS · ~200 mi

Salt Lake City · SLC · ~300 mi

Salt Lake City · SLC · ~300 mi

Phoenix · PHX · ~350 mi

Phoenix · PHX · ~350 mi
Sleep at the

VR Campground

Campground check-in begins on Wednesday, September 30 from 12:00 – 7:00 PM at the booth by the baseball fields on the east side of the park. You will be able to pull up close by and unload your vehicle. There will be shared wagons to help transport your belongings to your site. Please plan to move your car quickly to make room for other campers arriving. Can’t make it before 7pm on Wednesday? After-hours check-in is available — look for instructions at the booth. Sites are first come, first served: you’ll be given a flag at check-in to write your name on, then pick your tent or site and place the flag in the ground outside the tent to claim it. Field 1 is for participants bringing their own tent. Fields 2 & 3 will be set-up with 4-person and 6-person tents for those who reserved one in advance. Reserved an RV or car/van site? Signs and staff will direct you where to park — please remember there are no hook-ups.
Campground photo

Camping Options & Pricing

Tent camping is included in the price of registration. This includes registrants who will bring their own tent or 4-person and 6-person tent rentals. Folks who want to camp in their car, van or RV will pay a small upgrade fee of $30. This can be adjusted within registration. Please note that we cannot accommodate RVs greater that 30’ in length. Non-runners are more than welcome to camp with their running companions!

Check-In & Check-Out

Check-in is Wednesday, September 30, 12:00 – 7:00 PM at the booth by the baseball fields; after-hours instructions are posted there. Check-out is on Sunday, October 4 by 9:00 AM. Anything you use to decorate your tent must come down completely and cannot damage the tent.

Camping Etiquette

Quiet hours begin at 10:00 PM. Arriving at odd hours? Keep lights and noise down. Keep showers short and spread out the load so there’s hot water for everyone. Keep facilities clean, dispose of your trash, obey traffic laws and keep speeds down, don’t shine lights into other tents, and walk in the designated lanes rather than cutting between tents. Bring ear plugs if you’re sensitive to noise.

Showers, Chargers & Pavilions

Plenty of showers and changing rooms are available in the pool house and the shower truck. Please be mindful of shower duration to avoid long wait times for others. Both flushable and porto restrooms are available throughout the festival headquarters, including handwashing sinks. Phone charging stations will be set-up at HQ for use by everyone. A few small picnic pavilions with grills are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Back at Basecamp

Festival Village

The festival kicks off around 4:00 PM with yoga, but you can start your recovery earlier with massage appointments starting at 2pm. Get in line for a massage and lean into the festival, or go explore on your own for a few hours and come back for dinner, music, and films. Non-runners don’t need a festival pass to join in on the fun.
Festival Village photo

Active Clinics

Line Dancing photo
Thu, Oct 1 · 5–6 PM · New

Line Dancing

With Donna Bronson of Bronco Entertainment. No experience needed.
Tai Chi photo
Fri, Oct 2 · 5–6 PM

Tai Chi

With Terri Henry of Vibration Oasis, board-certified through the Tai Chi for Health Institute. A moving meditation for balance and recovery.
Sound Bath photo
Sat, Oct 3 · 5–6 PM

Sound Bath

Pure Healing Resonance by Carmella — aromatherapy, grounding breathwork, and ten quartz crystal bowls.
Star Gazing photo
Fri, Oct 2 · 8:30–10 PM

Star Gazing

Stargazing with Stellar Vista Observatory. Bring your curiosity (and questions about the universe) and see the Andromeda Galaxy, Hercules Star Cluster, Saturn, and more through high-power telescopes. SVO’s astronomers are excited to share the sky with you.

Recovery, Services & More

Massage photo
Daily · 2–8 PM · Free

Massage

Free 20-minute massages every day, with the option to pay for a longer session. First come, first served — hop on the waiting list.
Elevated Legs Compression photo
Daily · 2–8 PM · Free

Elevated Legs Compression

Hot/cold leg compression therapy to help you relax and recover. Ten minutes each day is free, compliments of Vacation Races — need an extra boost? Add 10 more minutes for $10, 20 for $15, or 30 for $20. @elevatedlegs
Sauna photo
All Day Sauna · Free

Sauna

We’re partnered with All Day Sauna Co. to bring next-level post-race recovery to race weekend —because the work doesn’t stop when you cross the finish line. A mobile sauna on site all day, free to use. Bring a towel you don’t mind getting sweaty and keep sessions reasonable so everyone gets a turn. And if you want to keep the benefits going long after race weekend, use code VACATIONRACES to save up to $150 on your own sauna from All Day Sauna Co.
Yoga with Tiffany Smith photo
Thu–Sat · 45 minutes

Yoga with Tiffany Smith

Two instructor-led sessions each afternoon after the race, 4:00–4:45 PM and 5:00–5:45 PM. Bring your own yoga mat or use one of VR’s mats (limited quantities). Additional recovery tools such as foam rollers are available in the recovery area for self-guided work.
Self-serve

Medical Tent

Basic first aid supplies are available at Festival HQ. The medical area at each race finish is for athletes only.
Nightly at HQ

Contests & Raffle

Running Outfit Awards and the Tent Decorating Contest are judged nightly alongside awards and the raffle. Every bib has a raffle ticket printed on it — be present Saturday evening to enter and claim prizes.

IV Station · Desert Healing

IV tent hours: Wednesday 12–7 PM, Thursday–Saturday 3–7 PM. Desert Healing brings 20+ years of ER clinical experience to the desert: a precise, medically-backed blend of amino acids and vitamins to prime your engine before the race and repair it the moment you cross the line. Stop by the tent or book your pre-race session. deserthealing.org
IV blend

Athletic Performance

$185
Fluids, B12, B Complex, Magnesium, Amino Blend, Vitamin C
IV blend

Myers Cocktail

$185
Fluids, B12, B Complex, Magnesium, Calcium, Vitamin C
IV blend

Immune Boost

$185
Fluids, B12, B Complex, Vitamin C, Zinc, Magnesium, Calcium
IV blend

Muscle Recovery

$125
Fluids, Magnesium
IV blend

Inflammation Relief

$125
Fluids, Amino Blend
IV blend

Energy Boost

$125
Fluids, B12
IV Discounts, Injections & Peptides+
Discount: $155 each for any IV when booking at least 2 IVs during the weekend. Injections & infusions: NAD+ infusion $455 · NAD+ injection $60 · Toradol (pain relief) $60 · Zofran (anti-nausea) $35 · Vitamin D $35. Peptides: BPC-157 $175 · Wolverine Stack (BPC-157 / TB-500) $250. In town: Desert Healing’s downtown Kanab location also has a cold plunge and hot sauna, plus IV hydration 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM every day of the week.Book with Desert Healing
Dress the part

Prepare for Festival Contests

Each morning at the start line, we’re spicing things up with a themed costume contest. Show up dressed for the day’s theme for a chance to win some fun prizes and bragging rights.
Prepare for Festival Contests photo

The Daily Themes

Bring your creativity, rally your crew, and don’t hold back — the trail is your runway.
Race day 1 · Bryce · Thu, Oct 1

Favorite Color Day

Go head-to-toe in your favorite color — matching tutus, colored tights, painted nails, or a full color-coordinated fit. Bonus points for creativity (and sparkle).
Race day 2 · Zion · Fri, Oct 2

Fun Headwear Day

Bring your best — or weirdest — hat, headband, or headpiece. Funny hats, costume wigs, antlers: if it goes on your head, it’s fair game.
Race day 3 · Antelope Canyon · Sat, Oct 3

Favorite National Park Day

Celebrate your favorite national park through your outfit — think park-inspired colors, patches, wildlife prints, or a DIY look based on your go-to trail.
How It Works+
Want to enter? Find our photographers at the start line each morning and have them snap a photo of your look. Those photos go up on social, where event attendees and the Vacation Races community vote on their favorites, bracket style. From there, the VR team selects the winners from the top contenders, with results announced at the award ceremony each night.
Catered every night

Meals & Dining

Dinner is served nightly from 5pm-8pm at the Main Pavilion. Grab and go breakfast is available at the concession window at the Main Pavilion every race morning. There will be a runner recovery tent with light recovery foods and some hot food options waiting at each finish line. Lunch is on you — Kanab has more incredible food options than a three-day weekend can cover. Check out our suggestions below! Full Participant Culinary Guide
Meals & Dining photo

Dining at a Glance

Dietary Restrictions: Runners who have selected a Vegetarian, Vegan or Gluten Free dietary restriction during registration will be given different color meal tickets to ensure they receive their special restriction-friendly meals. Please note that while we try our best, we cannot guarantee cross-contamination of gluten free surfaces. If you have a companion that needs a special dietary accommodation, please come speak to a staff member at the Runner Services tent.
5:00 AM

Breakfast · Thu–Sun

Starting at 5:00AM Thursday - Saturday and 7:00 AM on Sunday. Enjoy hot oatmeal, overnight oats, breakfast bars, muffins, whole fruit, coffee, hot tea, hot chocolate, water. No meal ticket required for registered runners. Non-runners can purchase breakfast tickets for $5/day.
5 - 8:00 PM

Dinner · Wed–Sat

At the Main Pavilion, Trailfest HQ. One dinner meal ticket per person, presented when entering the main buffet line. Registered runners get one ticket per event night. Additional meal tickets are available to purchase for non-runners. $12/dinner ticket, $5/breakfast ticket or $15 for both breakfast and dinner per day. Please visit the Runner Services booth to purchase additional meals.
Nightly 7 - 9:00 PM

Evenings Around the Fire: The Elevated S'mores Station

Each day, after the running wraps up and the evening entertainment is in full swing, join us around the fire pits for the sweetest part of the day. We’re upgrading your traditional campfire snack with a nightly gourmet s’mores bar packed with fresh takes on the classic combo. From rich dark chocolates and flavored spreads to unexpected crunches complimented with both sweet and savory options, you’ll have plenty of options and unexpected twists to build your ultimate sweet creation. Grab a roasting stick, get creative with your concoctions, and relax with fellow runners as we wind down the day together. Our Elevated S’mores station will kick off around 7pm each night and run until about 9pm.
At each finish

Runner Recovery Tent

Each day at the race finish line, Thursday through Saturday: hot quesadillas, grilled cheese, sweet and salty snacks, and recovery beverages, while supplies last.
Wed–Sat

Beer Garden · Monster Brewing

Must be 21+ to enter the beer garden. Beer tickets can be purchased separately and valid ID is required to enter the beer garden. Hours will be 5pm-9pm Wednesday to Saturday. Non-alcoholic beer and sodas will also be available.

Dinner Menus

Wednesday

Penne Bolognese

· Penne pasta served with a rich, slow-simmered meat sauce (vegetarian and gluten-free options available, plus gluten-free penne) · Caesar Salad · Dinner Rolls (gluten-free available) Self-serve nonalcoholic beverage station: sparkling water, fruit-juice mocktails, watermelon juice, cherry juice, rotating fruit juices.
Thursday

Herb-Roasted Chicken

· Roasted Potatoes · Sautéed Summer Squash · Pasta Salad · Fresh Garden Salad - Spring mix with cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers and croutons (gluten-free balsamic vinaigrette or ranch). Plant-Based: Harvest Shepherd’s Pie prepared with vegetables and beans (vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free).
Friday

Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls

· Roasted Broccoli and Carrots · Asian Cucumber Salad · Fresh Garden Salad. Toppings: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, extra gluten-free teriyaki sauce. Plant-Based: Plant-based Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl served with rice, roasted broccoli and carrots, and salad selections.
Saturday

Cheeseburgers and Black Bean Burgers

· Baked Beans · Potato Salad · Assorted Chips · Fresh Garden Salad Bar. Gluten-free buns available. Toppings: lettuce, tomatoes, onions (raw or sautéed), relish, pico de gallo, assorted condiments. Plant-based: Black Bean Burger.

On the Drive Back

Lunch each day will be up to the participant. Each course sends you back to Kanab a different way, which provides an opportunity to try a new lunch spot each day. There are a few crew favorites along each return route, plus plenty of options right in Kanab — tap any of them for hours and menus, which change often enough to be worth checking before you go.
After Bryce · Thu

Archie’s Food to Die For

A great stationary food truck on the north side of Orderville. 
Visit ↗
After Bryce · Thu

The Shop Coffee Co

Awesome sandwiches, pastries, smoothies, coffee, and other drinks, located in Orderville.
Visit ↗
After Zion · Fri

Edge of the World Brewery

Hidden brewery with a great food menu. 
Visit ↗
After Zion · Fri

Sweet Sage Coffee Co

Highly rated coffee and a straightforward breakfast and lunch menu.
Visit ↗
After Zion · Fri

Water Canyon Wine Tasting

Charcuterie and wine tastings.
Visit ↗
After Antelope · Sat

BirdHouse

A favorite among the Vacation Races team.  They have awesome chicken!
Visit ↗
After Antelope · Sat

Grand Canyon Brewery

Great local brewery with a very large menu.
Visit ↗
After Antelope · Sat

Rustic Thistle

Southern cuisine with local Navajo flair. Vegan and gluten-free options available.
Visit ↗

Beer Garden · Monster Brewing

Monster Brewing takes over the beer garden. Tickets are purchased separately and valid ID is required. Open Wednesday–Saturday per the posted schedule.
On draft

Last One Down Lager

The Trailfest custom event lager.
On draft

Juicy IPA

The largest pour of the weekend — seven kegs.
On draft

StarGazer IPA

Session West Coast style.
On draft

Evolution Amber Ale

Malt-forward amber.
On draft

Apricot Hefeweizen

Wheat beer with apricot.
On draft

Salt Lime Cerveza

Light cerveza with salt and lime.
On draft

Juicy Citrus Wheat

Citrus-forward wheat beer.
Canned

Michelob Ultra

Canned

The Beast & Blind Lemonade

For the non-beer drinkers, caffeine free, canned beverages available in a variety of flavors.

Non-Alcoholic Options

Michelob Ultra Zero & Craft Sodas will be available as non-alcoholic options
How Meal Service Works+
Everyone begins in the same main dinner buffet line — there’s no separate line for dietary needs, but dietary restrictions will have a separate dinner ticket color. The attendant will explain which buffet items fit your needs and where the entrée is served, then you will continue through the buffet for salads, vegetables, sides, and beverages.
Allergen Notice+
We make reasonable efforts to keep designated menu items separate; however, all meals are prepared and served in a shared temporary event kitchen. Wheat, dairy, eggs, soy, sesame, nuts, and other allergens may be present. We cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment. Participants with serious food allergies should speak directly with the culinary team before selecting food. Select your dietary restrictions at registration or edit your registration to include them up to two weeks before the event — we will have a list of registrants with dietary restrictions to ensure everyone’s needs are met. If you did not sign up for a dietary restriction meal, please do not take one of those options as we prepare quantities in advance. If you need a different meal option than what you’ve selected, please come talk to a staff member at Runner Services.
Non-Runner Meal Tickets+
Dinner tickets are $12, breakfast tickets $5, and a combo of both per day is $15. Buy them at the registration tent or at the buffet table, cash or credit.
Evenings Around the Fire · The Elevated S’mores Station+
7–9 PM · Wed–Sat. Each day, after the running wraps up and the evening entertainment is in full swing, join us around the fire pits for the sweetest part of the day. We’re upgrading your traditional campfire snack with a nightly gourmet s’mores bar packed with fresh takes on the classic combo — from rich dark chocolates and flavoured spreads to unexpected crunches, with both sweet and savoury options. Grab a roasting stick, get creative with your concoctions, and relax with fellow runners as we wind down the day together.
Runner Recovery Tent+
At each race finish Thursday through Saturday: hot quesadillas, grilled cheese, sweet and salty snacks, and recovery beverages, while supplies last. This is a separate runners-only station after the race — distinct from the on-course aid station.
Lunch in Kanab+
Lunch is independent and not an official Trailfest meal. Food and beverage trucks may be at Trailfest HQ during select hours — vendors, menus, and times vary, so check posted signage; purchases aren’t included with registration or meal tickets. For spots on each day’s drive home see On the Drive Back above, and for places in town see Explore Kanab.
Every night at HQ

Performers

Keynotes, live music, Indigenous performances, and two film festivals — all included with your registration.
Performers photo

Keynote & Indigenous Performances

Keira D’Amato photo
Keynote · Wed, Sep 30 · 6:00–7:30 PM

Keira D’Amato

Our 2026 keynote speaker opens the festival on Wednesday evening, before the welcome orientation.
Pueblo Enchantment Dancers photo
Thu, Oct 1 · 6–7 PM

Pueblo Enchantment Dancers

Traditional and contemporary dances of Acoma and Hopi Pueblo, directed by second-generation Johnathan Keyope. Together since 1981.
Red Heritage photo
Fri, Oct 2 · 6–7 PM

Red Heritage

A Native American performing arts company from Page, Arizona — Grass Dance, Jingle Dress Dance, Northern Traditional, and the world-famous Hoop Dance.

Live Music

Fox & Bones photo
Thu, Oct 1 · 7–8 PM

Fox & Bones

The Alpines photo
Fri, Oct 2 · 7–8 PM

The Alpines

Sophia Rankin & The Sound photo
Sat, Oct 3 · 5:30–6:30 PM

Sophia Rankin & The Sound

Alicia Stockman photo
Sat, Oct 3 · 6:30–7:30 PM

Alicia Stockman

Film Festivals

Thu, Oct 1 · 8:30–10 PM

Trail Running Film Festival

An evening of trail running films at Festival HQ, included with your registration.
Sat, Oct 3 · 8:30–10 PM

RunNation Film Festival

The closing night film festival, included with your registration.

On the Course

Course Info

Every race starts at 7:00 AM and has one aid station roughly halfway.
Day 1 · Bryce Canyon
15.7
Miles
7:00 AM
Thu, Oct 1
Mile 10
Aid Station
5:20
Cutoff (h:mm)
Course Details+
This stunningly scenic course runs in, around, and through the colourful hoodoos as it links the Thunder Mountain and Golden Wall trails of Red Canyon. After the aid station there is some climbing during the final 5.7 miles before passing through the Red Canyon campground and finishing back at the Thunder Mountain trailhead. Nowhere is the force of erosion more tangible than at Bryce Canyon — you’ll see all the beauty but avoid the crowds on remote trails through the hoodoos of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. Note: trail rides will likely be taking place during the race. Horses have the right of way; all runners must yield.View the 2026 Course
Ten Mile Finish Option+
This course is beautifully brutal, and day one is the longest of the three. If you’re spent on arriving at the mile-10 aid station, you may continue about a quarter mile and finish your day by turning into the finish chute. Otherwise we encourage everyone to run the full distance. Anyone going for an overall top finisher award must complete the full 15.7 miles — additional timing mats are set up in the final section of the 5-mile loop to verify full-distance runners.
Aid Station & Cutoff+
One aid station at mile 10 — a long stretch for some, so refuel before the next major incline. It carries water, Neuma electrolyte drink, Honey Stinger gels, fresh fruit, and pretzels, plus portable toilets. The cutoff is enforced at the aid station: based on a minimum 20-minute-per-mile pace, runners reaching mile 10 after 12:00 PM will be pulled from the course and directed to the finish.
Getting There+
From Jacob Hamblin Park, head south on N 100 East, turn right onto E 300 North for 0.5 miles, right onto N 300 West (US-89) and follow US-89 for 59.5 miles. Turn right onto E Highway 12 for 13.6 miles, right onto N Main St (UT-63) for 1.2 miles, then left onto N 100 E. Parking areas are on the east side of the highway across from Ruby’s Inn. Travel time: 1 hr 25 min. There are four lots — please fill them in the labelled order. Staff will direct traffic. All runners who drive themselves ride a provided shuttle (about 15 minutes) from the lots to the start, and are shuttled back after the race. Ruby Inn: 30 N 100 E, Bryce Canyon City, UT 84764Driving directions
Day 2 · Zion
10.4
Miles
7:00 AM
Fri, Oct 2
Mile 7.3
Aid Station
3:30
Cutoff (h:mm)
Course Details+
Enjoy rim running on one of the most beautiful trail systems in America, from Smithsonian Butte to Wire Mesa, with panoramic views toward Zion. A little slick rock, towering views of Zion Canyon, and sweeping vistas make this one of our favorite trails. The towering sandstone walls and deep slot canyons here are unique to anywhere else on earth — you’ll run remote trails along the edge of a mesa with commanding views of the sandstone towers that make Zion famous. Keep an eye out for petrified wood on the trail.View the 2026 Course
Aid Station+
One aid station at mile 7.3, before the gradual climb on the back half of the Wire Mesa loop. It carries water, Neuma electrolyte drink, Honey Stinger gels, fresh fruit, and pretzels, plus portable toilets. Come prepared with a hydration pack — this single station is your only source of replenishment during the race.
Getting There+
From Jacob Hamblin Park, head south on N 100 East, then turn left to stay on 100 East/US-89A toward Fredonia for 6.8 miles. Turn right onto Pratt Street (AZ-389 W) toward Apple Valley for 32.6 miles, continue on UT-59 N for 8.1 miles, then take a slight right onto Main Street and drive about 2 miles to the dirt parking lot on your left. Travel time: 1 hr. Runners who drive themselves park in the dirt lot near Apple Valley and walk over to the start. Staff will be on site directing traffic and parking. Ruby Rider Ranch, no official address: Main Street, Apple Vally, UT 84737Driving directions
Day 3 · Antelope Canyon
13.2
Miles · or 14.2 w/ optional overlook climb & descent
7:00 AM
Sat, Oct 3
Mile 5
Aid Station
4:30
Cutoff (h:mm)
Navajo Land+
This entire course is on Navajo land. Remember that we are guests here, and be respectful of the area.
Course Details+
Run through a range of slot canyons on this impressive tour through Antelope Canyon’s famous sandstone corridors. It’s a loop, starting and finishing in the same location. Want 360-degree views? Add an optional mile to climb up to an overlook and see out as far as Bryce Canyon.View the 2026 Course
Aid Station+
Runners hit the aid station around mile 5. It carries water, Neuma electrolyte drink, Honey Stinger gels, fresh fruit, and pretzels, plus portable toilets. Come prepared with a hydration pack or other water source, as this single station is the only refill opportunity on course.
Getting There+
From Jacob Hamblin Park in Kanab, head south on N 100 E and turn left onto S 100 E. Turn left onto US-89 S/E 300 S and continue on US-89 S for approximately 75 miles toward Page. At the traffic circle, take the third exit onto Haul Rd. Runners can park at the Pera Club in Page, Arizona. Overflow parking will be available at the Page Sports Complex. Travel time: 1 hr 20 min. Runners park at the Pera Club and take a short shuttle to the start, then back to the lot from the finish. Pera Club Address: 445 Haul Rd, Page AZ 86040Driving directions
IMPORTANT: TIME ZONE INFORMATION+
On Day 3: Antelope Canyon, Trailfest travels from Utah into Arizona, where there is a 1-hour time difference. All Trailfest schedules, shuttles, start times, meals, and activities will remain on KANAB, UTAH TIME — Mountain Daylight Time (MDT). 8:00 AM in Kanab = 7:00 AM in Page IMPORTANT PHONE WARNING: Your phone may automatically switch to Arizona time as you travel toward Page or connect to Arizona cell towers. We recommend turning off automatic time-zone detection and keeping your phone set to Kanab, Utah / Mountain Daylight Time (MDT). KANAB TIME IS TRAILFEST TIME. If the Trailfest schedule says 7:00 AM, that means 7:00 AM Kanab time, regardless of which state you are in. Please double-check your phone and clock before departing for Day 3 activities so an automatic time-zone change doesn't cause you to miss a shuttle or other logistics.

Post Race

Awards, timing & the rules

Race Info

Awards are handed out nightly at Festival HQ alongside contest judging and the raffle. Top three male and female overall awards are given each night based on gun time, so if you’re competing, start in the first wave. On the final day, Overall Finisher Awards go to the top three men and women with the best cumulative time across all three races.
Cup-Free Racing+
As with all Vacation Races events, there are no cups at aid stations or finish lines. Aid stations are stocked with water and Neuma electrolyte drink — bring your own cup, container, or bottle. Aid stations use blue coolers for water and red coolers for Neuma, both with the same speed valves. Runners who opted in at registration receive a Nathan reusable cup. Remember: this is a dry climate at elevation — hydrate well.
Trail & Camp Etiquette+
Respect quiet hours — 10:00 PM nightly at camp. Runners are resting for tomorrow. Keep HQ clean — clean up the dining area after yourself and help keep the park tidy. Watch your water usage — keep showers short and consider off-peak hours. Respect everyone’s space — reduce vehicle speeds, don’t shine lights into tents, use marked walkways.
Awards Ceremonies+
Held nightly at Festival HQ. Each ceremony covers daily contest judging, the raffle, and race awards for the day. Top three male and female overall awards are given out nightly based on gun time — plan to start in the first wave of each race if you’d like to compete. On day three, Overall Finisher Awards go to the top three men and women with the best cumulative times across the three races. Current contests: Running Outfit Awards and the Tent Decorating Contest, with more to be added.
Timing Specifics+
Your timing chip is on the back of your bib and looks like a sticker — do not fold your bib. No chip means no recorded time. The chip is disposable after the race. Overall awards are based on gun time, so top competitors should start at the front; if you start toward the back, expect a delay before crossing the start line and be courteous as the race begins.
Live Tracking & Results+
Tracking is powered by Brooksee, so friends and family can follow your race in real time — no phone or watch needed. Brooksee estimates your position between checkpoints from pacing data for accurate updates and predicted finish times, and supporters can opt in to free text notifications at key points. Results are posted after each race and are not official until all runners have crossed the finish line.Live trackingResults
Finish Line & Recovery+
Each runner receives a food box, a banana, and chocolate milk after finishing, plus their finisher’s award. The runner recovery tent has hot food, snacks, fresh fruit, recovery beverages, and our signature finish-line mocktail, the Mana Freeze. The recovery area and medical tent are for runners only — please don’t enter or take runners’ food and supplies.
Spectators+
These courses are not very spectator friendly, but spectators are welcome to greet you at the finish. Friends and family should drive to the designated parking area for each race location and take the short shuttle ride to the finish. Spectators are responsible for their own transportation unless shuttle tickets have been purchased; when loading return shuttles, runners are given first priority.
Race Photos, iTab & Lost + Found+
Don’t forget your smile! FinisherPix will be onsite, capturing your race day smiles every day. Photos will be available 24-48 hours after the event completion. The FinisherPix Photo Pack includes all 3 days of running. You will receive ALL photos we identify of you in all digital formats (Basic digital image, Digital images with Finish Time, Digital images in certificate format). A link to download all images will automatically be emailed to you when photos are available online. You can purchase your race photos ahead of race day during registration or directly through FinisherPix. Update your registration and pre-order your photos following these steps! iTab, a custom engraved plate with your name and finishing time that clips right onto your medal ribbon. Pre-order before race day, and it’ll be sent to you automatically after results have been verified and posted. Shipping will take about 2 weeks post event. If you missed out on pre-order, no worries. You can order yours today for just $15, including postage & packaging. Lost and found items can be found at the Merchandise Booth. If you have lost an item, please submit a request here. We will hold onto lost items and unclaimed gear check bags for one week only, so be sure to reach out as soon as possible.Order an iTab
Zero Waste+
At the heart of Vacation Races is a commitment to preserving the landscapes we run in. Unnecessary waste and trash can ruin the view and the experience, so every event has marked Zero Waste stations where you can sort your trash into the right container. Green lid · Compostables — banana and orange peels, uneaten food or drink items, and other organic material. Blue lid · Recyclables — plastics marked #1–7, aluminium and steel cans, paper, cardboard, and glass. Empty containers first. Black lid · Everything else — food wrappers, used gel packets, styrofoam, and all non-recyclable, non-compostable waste.
Packing List+
You’re camping for four nights in the desert and running three days in a row. Nights and mornings are cold; afternoons are hot and exposed. Highly recommended: camp pillow · shower and sauna towels · jacket or vest · sleeping bag & pad · lounging blanket · snacks and food · soap and shampoo · extra clothing · socks for each race · running shoes · flashlight or headlamp · camp shoes · camera, phone, chargers · mask or buff · personal medication · running hydration pack · warm clothes for nights and mornings. Recommended: sunglasses · sunscreen · sun hat · toiletries · extra blanket · long underwear. A few more things: personal first aid kit · gloves · insect repellent · rain gear · ear plugs.
Volunteers+
If you need assistance during the event, look for team members wearing shirts labelled VOLUNTEER, STAFF, or CREW. All volunteers should check in at the expo on Wednesday to receive instructions for their shifts — especially anyone volunteering at a start or finish line.
While you’re here

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Around Town & Beyond

Downtown Kanab photo
Walkable · Free

Downtown Kanab

A couple of unique museums, a movie theater, a bar, and several historic sites — plus a trailhead to a great hike right behind the park.

Three National Parks photo
Day trip

Three National Parks

Kanab sits within reach of three adjacent National Parks, two National Monuments, a Navajo Tribal Park, and Lake Powell.

Stay at Camp photo
At HQ · After 2 PM

Stay at Camp

Yoga classes, lawn games, massage therapists, local vendors and shops — plenty to do for anyone not heading out on the trails.

Know before you go

All festival activities begin after 2:00 PM, so mornings and early afternoons are yours. Non-runners don’t need an All Festival Pass — the speakers, films, and entertainment are free to join.

Where to eat

Eat & Drink in Kanab

Where to eat in Kanab itself. For the spots along each day’s drive home, see On the Drive Back in Meals & Dining. Hours, menus and availability change: confirm directly with each business before you go.

Sego

Canyons Boutique Hotel, Kanab
435-644-5680

Featured · New American. Chef Shon Foster — Kanab local and former Amangiri executive chef — serves regional New American cuisine and social plates at Canyons Boutique Hotel. Reservations recommended.

Wild Thyme Bistro

198 S 100 E, Kanab
435-644-2848

Lunch & dinner. Garden-to-table with Southwest and Cajun influences; vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Peekaboo Canyon Wood Fired Kitchen

233 W Center St, Kanab
435-689-1959

Vegetarian · Pizza. All-vegetarian and vegan, wood-fired pizza, craft cocktails, live music on Fridays.

Taro Coffee Bar

435-535-1197

Coffee. Espresso, cold brew, taro lattes, seasonal drinks, and pastries. @taro.coffeebar

Angel Village Café

Plant-based lunch. A rotating plant-based buffet at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. Confirm days, hours, and access before visiting.

Good to know

FAQs

Do I have to run all three days?+

Awards are given nightly for each race and cumulatively across all three, but the weekend is yours to run as you like. Day one at Bryce Canyon also offers a ten-mile finish option at the aid station if your legs need to save something for the next two days.

Do I need to buy a shuttle pass?+

No — shuttles are an optional paid upgrade. You’re welcome to drive yourself to each start, which many runners prefer so they can explore the area afterwards on their own schedule. If you do want a shuttle, buy it in advance: capacity is capped at 75 runners per day.

Can I pick up my bib after Wednesday?+

Yes. New for 2026: if you can’t make Wednesday’s expo, bib pickup is also available Thursday morning at the Bryce Canyon start line, and you’ll get your swag and shirt there. Bring your ID — or a copy of your friend’s ID if you’re picking up for someone else.

What’s included with registration?+

Tent camping, grab-and-go breakfast each race morning, one dinner ticket per event night, the runner recovery tent at each finish, fireside treats, all clinics and yoga, keynotes, live music, Indigenous performances, and both film festivals. Shuttles, beer garden tickets, and IV services are separate.

I’m bringing a non-runner. What will they do?+

They don’t need an All Festival Pass. Everything at camp begins after 2:00 PM — yoga, lawn games, massage, vendors, speakers, films, and entertainment are all free to join. While you’re on the trail they can explore Kanab’s museums and historic sites, or drive out to the parks. Non-runners can share a tent with a runner, and meal tickets are available separately.

Why is the race cup-free, and what should I bring?+

To cut single-use plastic waste, we don’t provide cups on course or at the finish. Each course has only one aid station, so a hydration pack or bottle isn’t optional here — bring enough to cover the full distance. Coolers of water and Neuma electrolyte drink are at every aid station.

Can I get a meal if I have dietary restrictions?+

Yes — vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options are available nightly, and no preorder is needed: tell the attendant at the buffet entrance. Select your restrictions at registration so they’re printed on the back of your bib. Meals are prepared in a shared temporary kitchen, so we can’t guarantee an allergen-free environment; anyone with serious allergies should speak with the culinary team directly.

Is there a lost and found?+

There’s no official lost and found. If we find items, we hold them for 14 days and then donate what’s unclaimed. Submit the lost item form to check whether we have yours.

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