Trail Running Calendar Arizona 2026-2027

Embark on an exhilarating journey through some of Arizona's most scenic routes with our comprehensive Trail Running Calendar for 2026-2027. With 87 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.

Run the original costumed trail party at the Javelina Jundred. Choose from 100-mile, 100K, or the night-time 31K Jackass Trail on rolling desert singletrack in Arizona's McDowell Mountain Park. The event features festive aid stations and is..

November 2026

Experience the Sonoran Desert at McDowell Mountain Regional Park with single loop or ultra endurance races. Enjoy a festival atmosphere featuring camping, music, and yoga under the Arizona stars.

Experience the natural beauty of Catalina State Park with trail races and a flat 5k road run. Enjoy a homemade Mexican breakfast and professional photos included with your registration at this Tucson event.

Experience the desert after dark at Usery Mountain Regional Park with several trail distances ranging from 5K to 30K. Enjoy a loop based course featuring well stocked aid stations and a festive nighttime atmosphere.

Experience the desert landscape of Mesa at Usery Mountain Regional Park with trail distances ranging from 5K to 50 miles. This event features technical single track and scenic climbs through the Goldfield Mountains.

Run the historic Mother Road in Arizona for its 100-year centennial. Choose from a 140-mile or 100-mile ultra, tackling it solo with a crew or as a strategic relay team. Enjoy 60 or 48 hours to experience the diverse landscapes of Route 66.

The Margonaut Dells Marathon takes runners through the famed Dells terrain near Prescott, Arizona. This challenging point-to-point event, likely a 50 km distance, is set for November 2026.

Test your limits at Estrella Mountain Regional Park on a flat one mile certified loop. This endurance festival features multiple timed and distance events including the 2026 USATF 24 Hour Road Championship.

Experience a European style cross country race at Reid Park featuring hay bale obstacles and a hilly grass course. Choose between a 5K Grand Prix event or a 1.5 mile fun run for a unique holiday tradition.

December 2026

The Colossal Vail 50/50 is an ultra run on the Arizona Trail near Tucson. It features three distances on a scenic, rolling course starting at Colossal Cave Mountain Park. The event is cupless and the 50-mile race is part of a larger triple..

Experience the desert after dark at McDowell Mountain Regional Park. This night trail event offers 5 mile, 10 mile, and 25 km distances illuminated by moonlight and headlamps.

Explore the scenic desert trails of McDowell Mountain Regional Park. Choose from five distances, from a 5-mile run to a 50-mile journey with mountain views. Enjoy chip timing, well-stocked aid stations, and a post-race charity beer garden.

Join a holiday tradition in Tucson with 5k and 1k runs starting at the Mica Mountain High School track. Support Toys for Tots by bringing a donation while navigating a varied cross country course.

Across the Years is the original New Year's multi-day running event in Arizona. Runners choose fixed-time or fixed-distance races, from 24 hours to 6 days, with the freedom to rest at their own pace. An optional "Around the Clock" lap chall..

January 2027

A 14 mile trail run on Trail 100 in central Phoenix on January 2, 2027. Mostly single track with steep climbs, multiple aid stations, a technical race shirt, and a four hour time limit.

Experience the beauty of the Superstition Mountains with various distances including a full marathon and trail runs. Join this scenic Arizona winter tradition featuring mountain vistas and a supportive community atmosphere.

Experience Chihuahuan Desert beauty at the historic Empire Ranch with trail runs of 10k, 5k, and 1 mile. Enjoy a day of western heritage activities and scenic trails in the Las Cienegas National Conservation Area.

The AZT Oracle Rumble is a trail run on the singletrack of Oracle State Park and the Arizona Trail. Participants can choose from distances including a 50 miler, 50K, half marathon, and 12K. This cupless event supports the Arizona Trail Asso..

February 2027

Experience a point to point journey through the Sonoran Desert on the historic Black Canyon National Recreation Trail. This premier Arizona event features 100 km and 50 km distances on fast singletrack and technical terrain.

Run through a legendary western film set and the rugged Tucson Mountain Park. Choose between 8 mile, 4 mile, or family friendly 1 mile distances featuring desert trails and historic movie streets.