McDowell Mountain Frenzy
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McDowell Mountain Frenzy Trail Runs
McDowell Mountain Frenzy is a set of trail races held on December 5, 2026 at McDowell Mountain Regional Park in Fountain Hills, Arizona. The event is organized by Aravaipa Running and offers multiple race distances on desert single track and competitive track trails.
Distances
- 50 Mile
- 50K
- 25K
- 10 Mile
- 5 Mile
The 50 Mile route includes multiple out-and-back climbs through the McDowell Mountains, including East End, Windgate, and Thompson Peak, and finishes with a loop that overlaps the 10 mile course. The 50K is a single loop that uses Escondido Trail, parts of the Pemberton loop, and sections of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and is described as generally flat and fast. The 25K, 10 Mile, and 5 Mile courses stay largely within the McDowell Competitive Track and feature winding single track with short, steep climbs and drops. The Competitive Track varies from about 2 to 10 feet wide.
Race operations include chip timing with live split tracking, well stocked aid stations spaced roughly every 3 to 10.5 miles, designated drop bag locations for specified distances, and on-site medical support from MedStar Solutions. Course marking uses orange ribbons with black polka dots, reflective medallions, laminated signs, and blue and white checkerboard flagging for wrong way trails. Late registration is available at packet pickup and on race morning. A charity beer garden at the event will support Wilderness Volunteers and is sponsored by a local brewery. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
