When is McDowell Mountain Frenzy?

McDowell Mountain Frenzy takes place on Dec 5, 2026. That's in 9 months.

Where is McDowell Mountain Frenzy located?

McDowell Mountain Frenzy is held in Fountain Hills, Arizona, United States.

What distances are available at McDowell Mountain Frenzy?

McDowell Mountain Frenzy offers the following distances: 50M, 50K, 25K, 10M, 5M.

How do I register for McDowell Mountain Frenzy?

You can register for McDowell Mountain Frenzy through the official registration page.

What is the typical weather for McDowell Mountain Frenzy?

Based on historical data, you can expect temperatures between 45°F and 67°F on race day. There's approximately a 5% chance of precipitation.

McDowell Mountain Frenzy (5M-50M) - Dec 5, 2026 | Fountain Hills, AZ

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Sonoran Desert at the McDowell Mountain Frenzy, a premier trail running event hosted by Aravaipa Running. Set for Saturday, December 5, 2026, in Fountain Hills, AZ, this race offers a challenge for every level, with distances including a 50M, 50K, 25K, 10M, and 5M. Runners can expect cool, ideal conditions with typical race day highs around 67F and lows around 45F, and only a 4% chance of precipitation, ensuring a refreshing start to your desert adventure.

The McDowell Mountain Frenzy courses are renowned for their stunning scenery, weaving through McDowell Mountain Regional Park and the McDowell Sonoran Preserve with miles of rolling singletrack trails, vibrant Saguaro cacti, and expansive mountain vistas. The 50K offers a generally flat and fast single-loop, making it an ideal first ultra, while the 50M tests endurance with roughly 7,000 feet of elevation gain, including a challenging ascent of Thompson Peak, rewarding runners with 360-degree views of the Valley of the Sun. Shorter distances, including the 25K, 10M, and 5M, traverse the park's competitive tracks, featuring winding single track and short, punchy climbs and descents. Despite some technical and rocky sections, particularly on the longer climbs, much of the course is highly runnable.

Aravaipa Running is celebrated for its well-organized events, and the McDowell Mountain Frenzy is no exception, known for its clear course markings and enthusiastic atmosphere. Aid stations, strategically placed every 3-10.5 miles, are fully stocked with water, electrolytes, fruit, and snacks to keep you fueled. Remember to bring your own cup as this is a cupless event. The start and finish lines are located at the Competitive Track parking lot within McDowell Mountain Regional Park, offering a welcoming hub for runners and crews alike. After crossing the finish line, celebrate your achievement with post-race food, massage services, and a charity beer garden, complete with unique finisher awards.