Hells Dells 50K

Hells Dells is a gritty, high-intensity ultramarathon scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Watson Lake in Prescott, Arizona. Now in its second year, the event is described by organizers as a "no bullsh*t" throwback to the raw roots of trail racing, serving as a memorial for the founders' late canine companions. The course is a 31-mile odyssey through the Granite Dells, a unique geological area featuring massive precambrian granite boulders. Runners tackle a single continuous loop with an added lollipop section, covering nearly 30 miles of unique trail that includes technical slickrock navigation and approximately 3,300 feet of total elevation gain.

Prescott is a city in Yavapai County, Arizona, situated in the Bradshaw Mountains at an elevation of 5,367 feet. The city has a population of approximately 46,800 residents. The demographic profile of Prescott is 88.3% White (non-Hispanic), 9.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.8% Asian, 1.3% Indigenous, and 0.8% Black or African American. The median annual household income is approximately $63,000. Geographically, the Watson Lake area is famous for its dramatic Dell formations and high-desert riparian zones. In late April, the climate in Prescott typically features low humidity and significant temperature swings; average daytime highs reach 21°C (70°F) while overnight lows drop to 4°C (39°F). The high altitude and intense Arizona sun can significantly increase the physical toll on runners navigating the exposed granite sections.

The event leans into a dark, theatrical aesthetic, featuring "Reaper Stations" for aid and a crew of costumed characters like plague doctors and devils to motivate runners. Despite the "beautiful pain" branding, the race offers reasonable cutoffs to accommodate those willing to brave the technical terrain. Registration managed through UltraSignup remains open until April 20, 2026, or until the field limit is reached. Participants receive pre and post-race photography as part of their entry, and the finish line atmosphere is known for its high-energy "after-race vibes" near the lake. Given the technical nature of the slickrock, organizers emphasize a "stay bewared" philosophy, urging runners to be prepared for a hard-earned finish.