Death Valley Trail Marathon 2025

• Race Location: Held in Death Valley National Park, the marathon runs through Titus Canyon, featuring stunning landscapes like multicolored rocks and ancient petroglyphs.
• Course Details: Marathon starts at 3500 feet, climbing to 4500 feet at Red Pass, primarily on packed dirt roads; course may change due to weather.
• Registration: No qualifying standards; registration is non-refundable unless protection is purchased.
• Logistics: Buses transport participants; aid stations at regular intervals; no bathrooms except at designated points.
• Safety: Be prepared for extreme weather; headphones are prohibited due to open road conditions.

The Death Valley Trail Marathon offers an unforgettable adventure through one of the most iconic landscapes in the United States. Starting and finishing at Furnace Creek Ranch, this race takes you deep into Death Valley National Park, along a dirt road through the stunning Titus Canyon. With an elevation climb from 500 to 2,500 feet, the course presents a formidable challenge that rewards with breathtaking desert vistas, narrow canyons, and fascinating sights like ancient petroglyphs and ghost towns.

Held in winter, the marathon benefits from milder temperatures, though organizers ensure safety with potential course adjustments if needed. The event caters to all runners by offering a marathon, half marathon, and 10K, allowing participants of various skill levels to experience the beauty and rigor of the desert terrain.

The Death Valley Trail Marathon is perfect for those seeking a demanding yet awe-inspiring race, set against the backdrop of a unique and rugged natural wonder.

Expect temperatures between 38-73°F (3-23°C) with minimal precipitation in early February for the Death Valley Trail Marathon. Mornings typically start around 47-52°F (8-11°C), offering ideal conditions for runners. While wind is generally not a major factor, it can occasionally pick up due to desert cold fronts.

The Death Valley Trail Marathon offers an extraordinary running experience through the stark beauty of Death Valley National Park. The course unfolds along a rugged gravel jeep road, demanding both stamina and skill as runners navigate rocky paths and significant elevation shifts. Starting at 3,460 feet, participants ascend to 4,900 feet over the first nine miles, only to climb again to a peak of 5,250 feet before embarking on a thrilling 14-mile descent to 250 feet at the finish line.

This race, beginning in Beatty, Nevada, and weaving through the stunning Titus Canyon, showcases breathtaking desert landscapes and panoramic mountain vistas. With a total elevation gain of 2,300 feet and a descent of 5,000 feet, the marathon challenges runners with its dramatic climbs and descents. The unpredictable weather, which can include chilly temperatures and even snow, adds an extra layer of difficulty.

What sets this marathon apart is its unique point-to-point route, offering some of the most spectacular views in the trail-running world. The Death Valley Trail Marathon promises a challenging yet unforgettable journey through one of America's most iconic natural settings.

Visiting Death Valley National Park offers a unique opportunity to explore one of America's most dramatic landscapes. Beyond the thrill of the trail marathon, visitors can immerse themselves in the park's stunning natural beauty and rich history. Stay near Furnace Creek for convenient access to key attractions and enjoy mild December temperatures, perfect for outdoor adventures.

Explore iconic sights such as Zabriskie Point for breathtaking vistas and Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. Don't miss the vibrant hues of Artist Palette or the shifting sands of Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, both easily accessible with a short hike. For a panoramic view, Dante’s View is particularly spectacular at sunrise or sunset. The Furnace Creek Visitor’s Center provides insights into the park's history and natural features.

Cultural experiences abound with opportunities to learn about the Timbisha Shoshone, the indigenous people of the area, through interpretive programs. Discover ancient Native American rock art, and enjoy the park's renowned stargazing under its pristine dark skies. Whether hiking to waterfalls or spotting wildlife like bighorn sheep, Death Valley offers endless exploration possibilities. Rent a vehicle suitable for unpaved roads to fully access the park's remote beauty and ensure you're prepared with water and sun protection for a safe and respectful visit.