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Grand Canyon of the South Ultras

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Breaks Interstate Park • Virginia

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Presented by Southwest Virginia Running

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Experience Virginia's Most Spectacular Trail Running Destination

Welcome to the inaugural Grand Canyon of the South Ultras, a trail running experience unlike anything else in Virginia.

Held entirely within the Virginia side of beautiful Breaks Interstate Park, this event invites runners to explore one of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the eastern United States. Known as the Grand Canyon of the South, Breaks features dramatic sandstone cliffs, expansive overlooks, rugged mountain terrain, dense forests, and miles of scenic singletrack carved into the Appalachian Mountains. Visitors have been drawn to this remarkable canyon for generations, and now trail runners will have the opportunity to experience it in a completely new way.

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Whether you're chasing a sunrise adventure, soaking in the colors of sunset over the canyon, or tackling an epic mountain 50K, the Grand Canyon of the South Ultras offers a race experience that combines challenge, beauty, and adventure for the entire family.

 

Race Distances: Morning 10k, Sunset 10k, Double 10k, 50k

 

Morning 10K

Start Time: 9:00 AM

The Morning 10K offers the perfect introduction to trail running at Breaks Interstate Park. Runners will enjoy scenic overlooks, rolling mountain terrain, and beautiful forested trails while experiencing some of the park's most iconic scenery.

 

Perfect for:

  • First-time trail runners

  • Road runners looking for a new challenge

  • Hikers wanting a timed event

  • Families participating together

 

Expect:

  • Stunning canyon views

  • Moderate climbs and descents

  • Technical but approachable trail sections

  • A memorable mountain running experience

 

Sunset 10K

Start Time: 5:30 PM

There may be no better place in Virginia to watch the sun set than Breaks Canyon.

The Sunset 10K allows runners to experience the canyon as the evening light paints the cliffs and mountains in shades of gold, orange, and crimson. The course is designed so that most participants finish just before darkness settles across the gorge.

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Expect:

  • Cooler evening temperatures

  • Incredible photography opportunities

  • Unforgettable canyon views

  • A finish line celebration under the fading Appalachian sky

 

Grand Canyon of the South 50K

Start Time: 8:00 AM

The signature event of the weekend.

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The 50K is designed to showcase the incredible trail system located on the Virginia side of Breaks Interstate Park. Runners will traverse a diverse network of trails featuring canyon overlooks, ridgeline running, rocky sections, flowing singletrack, forested hollows, and challenging mountain climbs.

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This course serves as a true tour of Virginia's most spectacular trail destination.

 

Expect:

  • Significant elevation gain and loss

  • Technical mountain terrain

  • Multiple scenic overlooks

  • Fully stocked aid stations

  • Rugged Appalachian beauty around every corner

 

This is a mountain adventure worthy of the name Grand Canyon of the South.

 

Make It a Family Adventure Weekend

One of the things that makes the Grand Canyon of the South Ultras unique is that the race takes place within a destination park that offers activities for the entire family. Instead of arriving, racing, and leaving, we encourage runners and their families to turn race weekend into a mountain getaway.

 

Lodging Discount for Registered Runners

Registered runners will receive a 10% discount on lodging at Breaks Interstate Park, making it easy to stay close to the start line and enjoy everything the park has to offer.

 

Camp Under the Stars

For those who love the outdoors, camping is available within the park. Spend the weekend surrounded by mountain views, fresh air, and the sounds of nature while enjoying easy access to race activities.

 

Splash, Paddle, and Play

The park offers a variety of family-friendly amenities, including:

  • A seasonal water park

  • A beautiful mountain lake

  • Fishing opportunities

  • Paddle boat and kayak rentals (seasonal)

  • Multiple playgrounds

  • Picnic areas

  • Scenic overlooks

  • Hiking trails for non-runners

  • Wildlife viewing opportunities

 

On-Site Dining

After your race, relax and enjoy a meal at the park's restaurant while taking in spectacular canyon views. Whether you're celebrating a finish or spending time with family, you'll find plenty of opportunities to unwind and enjoy the mountains.

 

More Than a Race

At Southwest Virginia Running, we believe races should create experiences, memories, and connections. The Grand Canyon of the South Ultras was created to introduce runners to one of the most beautiful and underappreciated outdoor destinations in the eastern United States while supporting outdoor recreation and tourism in Southwest Virginia. From first-time trail runners to seasoned ultrarunners, this event offers something special for everyone.

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Looking Ahead

The inaugural event will feature the Morning 10K, Sunset 10K, and 50K distances.

 

But this is only the beginning.

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Plans are already underway to expand the event in 2027 with additional ultra-distance options designed to showcase even more of the rugged terrain, scenic overlooks, and backcountry adventure that make Breaks Interstate Park such a remarkable destination.

 

The Canyon Is Calling

Come experience towering cliffs, breathtaking overlooks, mountain trails, unforgettable sunsets, and the welcoming community of Southwest Virginia.

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Join us for the inaugural Grand Canyon of the South Ultras and discover why this incredible place has earned its legendary name.

Adventure awaits at Breaks.

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