The Course

The Shiprock Marathon course is certified by USA Track & Field (#NM04003DS). The Marathon and 5-person coed Marathon Relays begin near Red Valley, less than a mile from the border with Arizona on Route 13. The point-to-point road course passes by the spectacular Shiprock, which is an 1800' volcanic cinder cone, visible during most of the Marathon . The Finish Lin e is in the city of Shiprock . The course has a few hills, mostly long gradual inclines. A Marathon course map with photos at various mile markers is available, as is a detailed altitude graph of the entire course. The Marathon begins at an elevation of almost 6000', peaks at 6070', and finishes at an altitude of 4800'. It is of special note that the final six miles are a gentle downhill grade. Water/energy drink stations will be available every 2 miles. Fruit will be available beginning at mile 16. Carbboom energy gel will also be available at mile 12, 16 and 20.
 
The first 20 miles of the Marathon course take place on Route 13. This road will be closed during the events.
 
The Half-Marathon begins nearby the Shiprock itself - and travels the last half of the Marathon course.
 
The non-competitive 10K Trail Walk follows a graded path towards the Shiprock, winds around a mesa (“Blueberry Hill” to locals), then climbs to the mesa top for some tremendous views of surrounding mountains. A single, large refreshment station will be visited twice on this looping 6.2mile course. Water and fruit will be available. This trail begins and concludes at the Finish Lin e area for all events.
 
Take a look at the Course Map (60k pdf), Road Map, and Elevation Profile.(29.3k pdf)