The Devils in the Canyon Trip returns to Springdale, California on September 25th as part of Zion 2026, offering an unparalleled adventure through one of America's most breathtaking landscapes. Participants will join Bad Luck Run Club for a weekend packed with trail running and scenic exploration within Zion National Park. This event is not just about the run; it’s a shared experience among friends across three days filled with casual canyon shakeouts to epic 17-20 mile runs, capped by stunning vistas that distract from physical fatigue.
On race morning, runners will gather in Springdale at various meeting points before heading into Zion National Park. The park's dry and hard trail conditions make for a challenging yet rewarding terrain, where participants can expect steep inclines, rocky paths, and narrow trails typical of desert canyon environments. Weather forecasts predict an average temperature of 21.7 degrees Celsius with minimal risk of precipitation and moderate wind speeds, making the run feel comfortable despite potential daytime heat.
The Devils in the Canyon Trip has become a tradition since its inception, drawing runners who are ready for adventure rather than speed. The event supports local tourism and community engagement by focusing on camaraderie and scenic exploration over competitive racing. Each year sees a limited number of participants—only 22 this time around—who must sign up early to secure their spots.
The course itself is entirely within Zion National Park, featuring diverse terrain that ranges from easy morning shakeouts to long-distance treks along historic routes such as the East Rim and West Rim trails. Participants will experience iconic features like sheer canyon drop-offs and historical cable works ruins while enjoying group runs led by experienced guides who ensure no one gets left behind.
Weather conditions are expected to be mild, with temperatures ranging from 17.4°C at dawn to a high of around 26.1°C during the day. The humidity will sit comfortably at about 76%, and there is a slight chance for light rainfall in the evening hours but no significant precipitation risk that would impact trail conditions.
The Devils in the Canyon Trip offers one main event distance: the Weekend Retreat, which includes all group activities within Zion National Park over three days.
Weekend Retreat
Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $500.00
Registration can be completed online at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=137429. Fees vary depending on when you sign up, ranging from $450 for early registration to $650 if registering late in the summer. Volunteers who have participated four times receive a discount of $200 off their registration fee using code FOUR at checkout. Bib pickup details will be communicated closer to the event date; participants should bring valid identification and confirmation email.
The start location is not fixed but typically involves meeting points around Springdale before heading into Zion National Park. Participants must ensure they are comfortable running 15-20 miles on trails over three days, as this trip emphasizes endurance rather than speed. A hotel room in St. George at the Tru by Hilton (double occupancy) and all park entry fees for the duration of the event are included.
The Devils in the Canyon Trip in Springdale, California on September 25th is an experience rooted deeply within Zion National Park’s trails and scenic vistas. This adventure-oriented run caters to those who value a journey through nature with friends over competitive racing outcomes, making it unique among running events for its blend of physical challenge and communal spirit.
