Auburn , USA |
23 Apr - Apr 25, 2026
Where California's gold country canyons push runners to their limits on the trails that inspired the Western States.
The Canyons Endurance Runs by UTMB takes place in Auburn, California, on the rugged trails of the Western States corridor. Runners tackle steep canyon descents, exposed ridgelines and relentless climbs through the American River canyon system in the Sierra Nevada foothills.
Set in the heart of California's gold country, The Canyons Endurance Runs by UTMB offers a raw and demanding trail experience on the legendary trails near Auburn. The course plunges into the American River canyon system, with punishing descents to river level followed by grueling climbs back to the ridgelines. These are the same trails that gave birth to the ultrarunning movement, and they remain as challenging as ever.
Runners navigate single track paths through oak woodlands, manzanita brush and exposed rocky terrain, with views stretching across the vast canyon landscape of the Sierra Nevada foothills. The spring heat can be fierce in the canyons, adding a thermal challenge to the already demanding vertical profile. Multiple distances cater to all levels, from seasoned ultrarunners to those discovering the magic of canyon running for the first time.
As a UTMB World Series event, The Canyons draws an international field to a landscape steeped in ultrarunning history. The energy of the Auburn running community, combined with world class trails and a course that leaves nothing to chance, makes this a standout event on the calendar.