Grand Canyon of the South
About the race
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 Breaks Interstate Park, the 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.
The race combines challenge, beauty, and adventure for the entire family.
Family weekend at the park
The race takes place within a destination park that offers activities for the entire family. Runners and their families are encouraged to turn race weekend into a mountain getaway.
Lodging discount
- Registered runners receive a 10% discount on lodging at Breaks Interstate Park.
Camping
Camping is available within the park, with mountain views and easy access to race activities.
Park amenities
- A seasonal water park
- A mountain lake
- Fishing
- Paddle boat and kayak rentals (seasonal)
- Multiple playgrounds
- Picnic areas
- Scenic overlooks
- Hiking trails for non-runners
- Wildlife viewing
Dining
The park's restaurant offers a meal with spectacular canyon views after the race.
About the canyon
Towering cliffs, breathtaking overlooks, mountain trails, and unforgettable sunsets define the canyon. The race offers a chance to discover why this place has earned its name.
Race policies
Southwest Virginia Running is committed to safe, welcoming, and professionally managed events that promote the local beauty and culture of the community. By registering, participants agree to abide by all SWVA Running policies, event rules, safety requirements, and participant expectations.
Policies on registration, transfers, deferrals, refunds, participant conduct, pacers, crews, minors, and race-day procedures are available on the SWVA Running website. Review all policies and race information before registering and again before race weekend.
The course
100 Miles
50K
Double 10K
Morning 10K
Sunset 10K
The race is held entirely within the Virginia side of Breaks Interstate Park. Runners traverse a diverse network of trails featuring canyon overlooks, ridgeline running, rocky sections, flowing singletrack, forested hollows, and challenging mountain climbs. The 50K and 100 Mile share a course described as a true tour of Virginia's most spectacular trail destination. The Morning 10K offers rolling mountain terrain and forested trails, and the Sunset 10K finishes as the light fades across the gorge.
Course cut-off
All distances have the cutoff time of 8 PM on Sunday.
Location
City insight: Breaks
Breaks is a small unincorporated community and census-designated place located mostly in Buchanan County, Virginia, close to the Kentucky border. It lies east of Breaks Interstate Park and was first listed as a census-designated place in the 2020 census, with a population of 144. Summers are hot and humid and winters are mild, so spring and autumn are the best seasons to race.
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