2026 GORE-TEX Kahtoola Uphill

GORE-TEX Kahtoola Uphill in Flagstaff, Arizona, United States on February 21, 2026, is a unique celebration of human-powered movement up the slopes of Arizona Snowbowl. The race not only offers an exhilarating challenge but also serves as the biggest fundraiser for Friends of Camp Colton, ensuring that proceeds support youth environmental education in Northern Arizona.
The event takes place on a crisp February morning where the air carries a fresh and invigorating chill typical of Flagstaff's high elevation. As runners prepare to tackle the challenging course, they'll find themselves amid a landscape that transforms from snow-covered trails into rocky terrains under the early winter sun. The community spirit is palpable with local residents and participants alike eagerly gathering at Arizona Snowbowl - Fremont Restaurant & Bar for the pre-race festivities.
The GORE-TEX Kahtoola Uphill has been running since 2015, firmly establishing itself as a beloved tradition among runners of all skill levels. This year, over 400 racers are expected to participate in various distances ranging from easy to challenging climbs. The race is a testament to the strong community support and the importance of environmental education.
The course spans several miles up and down the slopes of Arizona Snowbowl, featuring diverse terrain that includes both firm and slightly soft conditions. Runners will start at the base of the mountain, navigate through Midway and Öo’mawki areas before reaching the summit. The Lumberyard Brewing Co. Öo’mawki Climb offers a more intense 3.5-mile race with 2,200 feet in elevation gain for those seeking a greater challenge.
The Cambium Fun Climb is an ideal choice for families and beginners with its shorter distance of one mile featuring a 600-foot climb. For experienced runners or thrill-seekers, the Midway Climb - Traction and Skinning offer challenging routes through 3 miles and 1,550 feet in elevation gain.
Race day starts at Arizona Snowbowl's Fremont Restaurant & Bar where participants can register using this URL: https://runsignup.com/Race/AZ/Flagstaff/GORETEXKahtoolaUphill. Fees for the Lumberyard Öo’mawki Climb - Traction and Skinning are both $90, while the Midway Climb options cost $75 each.
Bibs will be picked up at Arizona Snowbowl on race day from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM. Participants must register by January 20, 2026, and are encouraged to arrive early for bib pickup and warm-up activities. The starting address is Arizona Snowbowl - Fremont Restaurant & Bar where participants should gather before the race.
For first-timers or those new to the event, it's important to note that the typical weather in February at this location includes an average temperature of 0.7°C with a range from -4.4°C to 5.8°C and feels like temperatures around -3.4°C due to wind chill. Runners should prepare for firm but slightly soft trail conditions, moderate UV index levels (around 3), and potential light snowfall.

Logistics are straightforward; the race will start at Arizona Snowbowl - Fremont Restaurant & Bar where participants can register using this URL: https://runsignup.com/Race/AZ/Flagstaff/GORETEXKahtoolaUphill. The race offers several distances including:
- Cambium Fun Climb | 1 Miles | fee=$50.00 - Lumberyard Öo’mawki Climb - Skinning | 3.5 Miles | fee=$90.00 - Lumberyard Öo’mawki Climb - Traction | 3.5 Miles | fee=$90.00 - Midway Climb - Skinning | 3 Miles | fee=$75.00 - Midway Climb - Traction | 3 Miles | fee=$75.00
Participants should register by January 20, 2026, and pick up their bibs between 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM on race day at the same location.
Starting from Arizona Snowbowl - Fremont Restaurant & Bar, age requirements are open to all runners. For first-timers, it's advisable to arrive early for registration, warm-up activities, and bib pickup before the event begins.