The Cloudcroft Ultra is a high-altitude trail-running event held annually in the mountain village of Cloudcroft, New Mexico, featuring four race distances: a challenging 53 km ultra, a 9.5-mile, a 4.75-mile, and a fun 1-mile Kids’ Dash. Set in the cool alpine air of the Lincoln National Forest, all races begin and end at historic Zenith Park and follow the scenic and rugged Rim Trail, known for its pine-shaded singletrack, sweeping views, and railroad-era history. The 53 km route includes a lollipop loop near the turnaround, offering extra miles of remote wilderness and elevation change. With well-stocked aid stations, chip timing, unique awards, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere, the event appeals to both seasoned ultrarunners and newer trail enthusiasts. Its blend of natural beauty, technical terrain, and family-friendly distances makes the Cloudcroft Ultra a standout destination race in the Southwest.
Race
The Cloudcroft Ultra 53K is a challenging high-altitude trail race held annually in mid‑August on the scenic Rim Trail (T105) above Cloudcroft, New Mexico, beginning and ending at Zenith Park and featuring a “lollipop” loop at the turnaround for added elevation and spectacular views. Runners tackle approximately 53 km of pine- and aspen-shaded singletrack at ~8,600 ft, with six well‑stocked aid stations, chip timing, drop‑bag support, and finisher awards for all who complete the course.
Weather based on historical averages.
FAQs
What is the Cloudcroft Ultra 53K?
How long is the Cloudcroft Ultra 53K?
Where does the Cloudcroft Ultra 53K take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Cloudcroft Ultra 53K?
How can I prepare for the Cloudcroft Ultra 53K?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Cloudcroft Ultra 53K?
The Cloudcroft Ultra 53K is a challenging high-altitude trail race held annually in mid‑August on the scenic Rim Trail (T105) above Cloudcroft, New Mexico, beginning and ending at Zenith Park and featuring a “lollipop” loop at the turnaround for added elevation and spectacular views. Runners tackle approximately 53 km of pine- and aspen-shaded singletrack at ~8,600 ft, with six well‑stocked aid stations, chip timing, drop‑bag support, and finisher awards for all who complete the course.
The Cloudcroft Ultra 53K is 53km long.
The Cloudcroft Ultra 53K takes place in Cloudcroft, New Mexico, USA.
The Cloudcroft Ultra 53K elevation gain is 1496 metres, which Runna classifies as a Hilly race.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Cloudcroft Ultra 53K?
The Cloudcroft Ultra 53K is a challenging high-altitude trail race held annually in mid‑August on the scenic Rim Trail (T105) above Cloudcroft, New Mexico, beginning and ending at Zenith Park and featuring a “lollipop” loop at the turnaround for added elevation and spectacular views. Runners tackle approximately 53 km of pine- and aspen-shaded singletrack at ~8,600 ft, with six well‑stocked aid stations, chip timing, drop‑bag support, and finisher awards for all who complete the course.
How long is the Cloudcroft Ultra 53K?
The Cloudcroft Ultra 53K is 53km long.
Where does the Cloudcroft Ultra 53K take place?
The Cloudcroft Ultra 53K takes place in Cloudcroft, New Mexico, USA.
What is the elevation gain of the Cloudcroft Ultra 53K?
The Cloudcroft Ultra 53K elevation gain is 1496 metres, which Runna classifies as a Hilly race.
How can I prepare for the Cloudcroft Ultra 53K?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Cloudcroft Ultra 53K?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
More
Sport:
Running
Tags:
Park
Nature
Altitude
Kid friendly
This event listing is for informational purposes only. Runna is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Cloudcroft Ultra or Bog Dog Running Limited. All event details are based on publicly available information and are provided solely to help users discover running events. Runna does not use any official logos, images, or proprietary content from this event or its organiser. Any trademarks or names mentioned are used descriptively to identify the event in a factual manner. For the most accurate and up to date information (including to register or purchase an entry to the event), please visit the Cloudcroft Ultra website.