Mcdowell Mountain Frenzy

McDowell Mountain Frenzy Trail Runs

McDowell Mountain Frenzy is a multi-distance trail running event on Saturday, December 5, 2026 at McDowell Mountain Regional Park in Fountain Hills, Arizona. The event uses the Competitive Track parking area as the start and finish location, with overflow parking in the Four Peaks Staging Area and a park entry fee of $10 per vehicle.

Distances offered:

• 50 Mile : 50.1 miles, 7,026 ft total elevation gain
• 50K : 30.8 miles, 3,020 ft total elevation gain
• 25K : 15.3 miles, 1,305 ft total elevation gain
• 10 Mile : 10 miles, 800 ft total elevation gain
• 5 Mile : 5.2 miles, 500 ft total elevation gain

Course details vary by distance. Routes include Sonoran Desert single track, the Escondido Trail, Pemberton loop, and sections that briefly enter the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The 50 Mile course includes three out-and-back climbs on East End, Windgate, and Thompson Peak and returns through the start/finish for a final loop. The 50K is a single loop that is generally flatter and faster.

Event services include chip timing with live splits, well stocked aid stations approximately every 3 to 10.5 miles, on-site medical staff, bib pickup and late registration, drop bag options for select distances, gender specific race shirts, post-race food, and finisher awards. Course marking uses orange ribbons with black polka dots, reflective medallions, laminated signs, and checkerboard flagging to mark wrong-way trails. Pacers are permitted only for 50 Mile runners on the final loop within the Competitive Track. A charity beer garden supports Wilderness Volunteers after the race. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.