Mcdowell Mountain Frenzy
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Event Overview
The McDowell Mountain Frenzy Trail Runs take place in the McDowell Mountain Regional Park near Fountain Hills, Arizona. The event features multiple distances through the Sonoran Desert, utilizing a variety of single-track trails and competitive track loops. The courses are designed to highlight the desert landscape, with some routes extending into the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
Distance Options
Participants can choose from five different course lengths:
- 50 Mile: A large 40-mile loop involving climbs to East End, Windgate, and Thompson Peak, followed by a final 10-mile loop.
- 50 km: A single loop format featuring the Escondido Trail and parts of the Pemberton loop.
- 25 km: Runs on the McDowell Competitive Track, featuring rugged and rolling desert trails.
- 10 Mile: Winding single track with short, steep climbs and drops within the competitive track area.
- 5 Mile: A shorter route contained within the competitive track trails.
Course Details and Amenities
The event is a cupless race, requiring participants to bring their own reusable containers. Aid stations are positioned along the routes at intervals ranging from 3 to 10.5 miles, providing various supplies. The 50 Mile and 50 km participants have access to drop bag locations at certain aid stations. Specifically for the 50 Mile distance, pacers are permitted to join runners for the final 10 miles of the course.
The finish area includes a charity beer garden and post-race food such as bagels and fresh fruit. Results are recorded using a chip timing system with live split points available for tracking.
Location and Environment
The event is staged at the Competitive Track parking lot within the McDowell Mountain Regional Park. December weather in the area typically consists of highs around 18°C and lows near 6°C. The park requires a per-vehicle entry fee, and camping options are available on-site through Maricopa County Parks. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
