Trail Running Calendar Arizona 2025-2026

Embark on an exhilarating journey through some of Arizona's most scenic routes with our comprehensive Trail Running Calendar for 2025-2026. With 85 diverse trail running events spread across the Grand Canyon State, you're sure to find the perfect race that aligns with your schedule and fitness level.

In the vibrant city of Phoenix, trail runners can explore the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert, with routes offering breathtaking vistas and challenging elevations. Not far behind, Tucson's trail running scene is adorned with the picturesque trails of Saguaro National Park and the Santa Catalina Mountains, promising runs that are as scenic as they are invigorating. Runners in Mesa and Chandler have the advantage of the sprawling trails in the Superstition Wilderness.

Trail enthusiasts in Scottsdale are spoiled with the McDowell Sonoran Preserve's extensive network of pathways, each offering a unique desert running experience. Meanwhile, Glendale's proximity to the White Tank Mountain Regional Park affords trail runners a chance to immerse themselves in the serene Arizona outdoors.

Tackle Mingus Madness 50k, a grassroots trail ultramarathon on Mingus Mountain near Prescott Valley. Roughly 32 miles and 6,000 feet of climbing on technical trails with minimal support and plenty of hiking make this a true backcountry test..

PhoMo 50K is a rugged 50K trail ultramarathon in the Phoenix Mountain Preserves with technical singletrack and about 6,000 feet of climbing. Field capped at 50 runners, crew access at trailheads, and entrants receive event swag.

Challenge desert trails at Usery Mountain Regional Park in Mesa with Pass Mountain Trail Runs on November 8, 2025. Multiple distances from 5K to 50 Mile wind through scenic single track, rocky sections, and Cholla forests for all levels.

Run or walk the Gobble Wobble in the Pai's at Hualapai Mountain Park on Nov 8, 2025 with scenic 5k and 10k routes through pine basins and camp loops. Proceeds fund native plant recovery after the Flag Mine fire and leashed dogs are welcome.

Punisher Night Trail at Usery Mountain Regional Park invites night runners to tackle 5K, 10K, 20K or 30K on runnable looped trails with some rollers and rocky sections. Run both this and Pass Mountain the same day to earn a Double Down meda..

Run historic Route 66 across northern Arizona in the Route 66 UltraRun, a 140 mile challenge with 60 hours to finish. Choose crewed, self supported Journey or relay options, then celebrate at the finish with food, music and awards.

Experience the Snake Eater 100K or 50K in Tusayan near the Grand Canyon, winding through forests, the Arizona Trail and miles of single track. Expect epic views and rugged, unforgettable trail running.

Explore the Desert Runner Trail Series across Maricopa County parks, Oct 2025 to Mar 2026, earning points at each race toward the Finale at White Tank Mountain. Distances span short trail runs to multi day ultras with series pass options.

Celebrate Veterans Day with scenic trail and road races at Catalina State Park in Tucson, featuring 10.6 mile and 5.3 mile trails plus a fast flat 5K. Enjoy homemade Mexican breakfast, pro photos, quality shirts and age group awards.

Push your limits at the Fat Ox Endurance Runs in Goodyear AZ with timed events from six to 48 hours and fixed distance 50K to 100 miles. Run a fast certified loop and compete for USATF 24 hour championship prizes.

Join the Trail Blazer at Paloma Community Park in Peoria on Nov 23, 2025 for 10K, 5K and virtual options on scenic desert trails. Enjoy custom finisher swag and chance encounters with local wildlife at this second annual community run.

Join the Thanksgiving XC Classic at Reid Park in Tucson on Nov 27 for a scenic 5K or 1.5 mile fun run. Tackle a grass and dirt cross country loop with hay bales, stroller lanes, and support Toys for Tots and Team Hoyt Arizona.

December 2025

Experience rolling high desert trails near Colossal Cave Mountain Park with distance options from a 50 mile ultra to day and night 13 milers. Great views, aid stations, and engraved railroad spikes for ultra finishers make this a must run.

McDowell Mountain Frenzy on Dec 6, 2025 in Fountain Hills, AZ offers 5 to 50 mile trail distances over scenic desert singletrack. Well marked courses, aid stations, live timing and camping make it a welcoming winter trail challenge.

Run under the stars on winding singletrack at McDowell Mountain Regional Park with 25K, 10 Mile and 5 Mile options. Expect short steep climbs, lively aid stations and a festive night trail vibe perfect for adventurous runners.

Take on the Southern Arizona Triple 50, one registration for three 50 mile trail ultras around Tucson, Oracle and Sonoita. Finish all three within 45 hours to earn a finisher garment and support the Arizona Trail Association.

Tackle rugged single track and desert washes at RUNMARANA Dirt Dash at Wild Burro, with a 13.1 mile half and a 6 mile option through scenic Tortolita Mountain Park. Enjoy challenging climbs, finisher awards and community fun.

The 20th Annual Vail Jingle Trail takes place in Tucson, Arizona, and offers two festive races: a 5K and Santa’s Little Helper 1K, highlighted for Saturday, December 13, 2025. The event embraces a holiday spirit with decorated courses, chee..

Bring your pup for a fun 5K hike or run around Papago Park and support Home Fur Good, a no kill shelter. Enjoy a scenic loop, swag for paid entrants, and a portion of registration donated to help local dogs.

Take on Desert Solstice in Phoenix on December 20, 2025, a 24 hour track endurance meet with 100 mile, 100k and 50 mile ultra options on a certified 400 meter track. Electronic lap timing and shifting directions keep every hour fresh.