Runmarana Tortolita Traverse Half-Marathon

Event Overview

The Tortolita Traverse is a multi-discipline event held in Marana, Arizona, at the Tortolita Preserve. The event spans two days, with the first day dedicated to trail running and the second day focusing on mountain bike races. Participants navigate a course designed through the local desert landscape.

Race Options

The event features four main categories over the weekend:

• 13.1 Miles (Half Marathon trail run)
• 7.7 Miles (Trail run)
• 19.06 Miles (Two-loop mountain bike race)
• 9.53 Miles (One-loop mountain bike race)

Course Details

The trail runs consist of a mixture of single-track dirt trails, dirt roads, and sandy washes. Aid stations are positioned approximately every three miles along the route. For the half marathon, a time limit of 4 hours and 30 minutes is in effect. The mountain bike portion utilizes a loop system, with the longer distance requiring two laps and a 3-hour time limit. In the cycling events, riders start at 60 seconds intervals.

Participant Information

Registered participants receive a custom race bib and a finisher's medal. Digital finisher certificates are also provided. The event includes a Tortoise Challenge where runners can earn a special pin by finishing faster than the route director's set times. For trail runners, the RaceJoy app is available to provide directions and tracking for friends or family. Results are posted live on the event website.

Dirt Hero Challenge

This event is part of a series in Marana. Participants who complete both the Dirt Dash Half Marathon in the winter and the Tortolita Traverse Half Marathon in the spring are eligible for a specific prize shirt for completing a combined marathon distance on local trails. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.