Get ready to uncork a truly unique running experience at the Vintage Run/Walk, set for April 18, 2026, in the scenic heart of Cottonwood, Arizona. This signature foot race offers a distance for every stride, with a Half Marathon (13.1M), 10K, 5K, and a 2M course. Known for its vibrant community atmosphere, the event also features the whimsical "Half-Corked" 5K, where runners (21+) carry a cup of water, and the remaining liquid at the finish line is playfully replaced with local wine. Expect typical race day conditions to be pleasantly warm, with historical highs around 81°F and lows around 44°F, and only a 1% chance of precipitation, making for ideal running weather.

All races begin and end at Riverfront Park, leading participants on picturesque journeys through diverse terrain. The Half Marathon course, offering some hills, winds through historic Old Town, along gentle hills to Sycamore Canyon Road, and up to Tuzigoot National Monument before continuing on trails with stunning views of the Verde River and into Dead Horse Ranch State Park. The 10K largely follows roads and sidewalks, showcasing the beauty of Dead Horse Ranch State Park, nestled between Sycamore Canyon and Mingus Mountain. Meanwhile, the 5K promises a lively adventure through Arizona's Wine Country, Old Town Cottonwood, and the scenic Jail Trail, while the 2M provides a relatively flat route with breathtaking scenery from the Riverfront Ramada area to Dead Horse Ranch State Park's main gate and back.

The Vintage Run/Walk, with its roots tracing back to the 1992 "Verde Mingus Blowout" and later the "Brian Mickelsen Marathon," was revitalized in 2019 to embrace Cottonwood's identity as "The Heart of Arizona's Wine Country." Runners consistently praise the beautiful courses, which highlight historical city landmarks, national monuments, open backroads, and serene wooded trails. Whether you're chasing a personal best or simply soaking in the stunning Arizona scenery and unique wine-themed festivities, the Vintage Run/Walk promises an unforgettable experience for all.