This trail marathon, half-marathon and 10K traverses the valley between the Santa Rita and the Rincon Mountains. It offers spectacular, sweeping views and while the marathon has plenty of challenging ups and downs along the foothills of the Santa Rita Mountains, the half-marathon and 10K courses offer mostly a gentle, winding descent through ocotillo, prickly pear cactus, creosote, and mesquite.
The point-to-point marathon and half-marathon begins south of Vail and follows the AZT north toward the finish line after a short dirt road segment within the first mile (marathon) and 0.3 mile (half-marathon). The 10K starts near Sahuarita Road and Hwy 83 and runs concurrent along the final 6.2 miles of the marathon course. All races finish at the Gabe Zimmerman Trailhead on the Arizona Trail. Transportation is provided to each start line on a school bus. After you finish, transportation is provided back to the parking area. All participants must park at Vail School District (13801 E. Benson Highway Vail, AZ 85641).
This event is an ideal way to experience the Arizona Trail. Well-stocked aid stations, friendly volunteers and spectacular views are waiting for you. Proceeds benefit the Arizona Trail Association and our mission to maintain and protect the Arizona National Scenic Trail.
In an effort to lesson our impact on the environment, this is a CUPLESS event — that means there are no paper cups at aid stations. You can buy an awesome collapsible flexible cup at packet pick-up for $3, or bring your own water bottle or hydration pack. We provide water and Skratch Labs hydration at aid stations in 5-gallon containers.
