Lace up your trail shoes for the Flagstaff Extreme Big Pine Trail Runs, an exhilarating race set for June 20, 2026, in the scenic Fort Tuthill County Park, Flagstaff, AZ. Offering distances for every ambition—53K, 27K, 13K, and a family-friendly 6K—this event immerses runners in the breathtaking beauty of towering ponderosa pines. Expect to run at elevations above 7,000 feet, where the air is crisp and expansive mountain vistas unfold, providing a refreshing escape from typical desert heat.

The course is renowned for its diverse terrain, featuring everything from narrow single track to wider, well-maintained forest paths. While the general grading makes it accessible for beginners, the high elevation ensures a challenging experience for all. Shorter distances, including the 13K (one loop) and 27K (two loops), utilize a scenic circuit through the park's Soldiers Trail and Highlands Trail Loop. The formidable 53K course ventures out of Fort Tuthill County Park to Rogers Lake via the Gold Digger and Two Spot Trails, returning through the start/finish area around mile 23 before tackling a final 13K loop. Aid stations, strategically placed every 4.0 to 7.3 miles, are well-stocked with water, an electrolyte drink (Gnarly Fuel-2O), sweet and salty snacks, and fruit, though runners are advised to carry a water bottle due to elevation and potential warmth. Typical race day conditions in late June bring highs around 82°F and lows around 46°F, with a minimal 3% chance of precipitation.

Organized by Aravaipa Running, the Flagstaff Extreme Big Pine Trail Runs is a well-established event known for its excellent organization and lively atmosphere. Runners often praise the ample singletrack and the stunning visuals of the pine forests. For those seeking an extra challenge, the opportunity to "Double Down" by participating in the Blackout Night Runs the previous evening at the same location adds a unique twist. The start and finish lines are conveniently located at the North Parking Lot of Fort Tuthill County Park, offering easy access for crews and drop bags on loop courses, and plenty of parking. Finishers are celebrated with a branded campfire mug or a wooden Artworx award.