Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the historic landscapes of Tombstone, Arizona, at the 7th Annual Tombstone Desert Donkey Dash on Saturday, April 18, 2026. This unique event challenges runners to partner with a donkey, traversing rocky and demanding desert trails in a true homage to the Old West mining heritage. Choose your challenge from three distances: a 3-mile intro course, a 6-mile short course, or the ultimate 13-mile long course.

The courses, color-coded for easy navigation, begin on historic Allen Street before venturing into Toughnut Gulch and the famed mining district. Runners and their donkey partners will power through historic sites like the Good Enough, Way Up, and Toughnut Mines, facing steep inclines that can climb from approximately 4,500 ft to 5,000 ft, offering stunning views of the desert and mining country. The 13-mile distance requires donkeys to be equipped with a pack saddle carrying traditional mining gear, including a pick, gold pan, and shovel, adding to the authentic experience. Aid stations, stocked with water and first aid supplies, will be strategically placed along the routes, including near the Charleston Road crossing and Monument Guest Ranch for longer distances.

Beyond the race, the Tombstone Desert Donkey Dash is a highlight of Tombstone's Ed Schieffelin Days, creating a festive atmosphere with various Wild West-themed activities for all. Participants consistently praise the event for its engaging and challenging nature, emphasizing the unique bond formed with their donkey companions. With typical race day conditions boasting comfortable highs around 76°F and lows around 40°F, and a mere 1% chance of precipitation, the weather is often ideal for this extraordinary desert excursion. Prepare for a one-of-a-kind trail race that combines physical endurance with a rich historical narrative in "The Town Too Tough to Die!"