Cave Creek Thriller Trail Runs
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Cave Creek Thriller Trail Runs : October 17, 2026
Cave Creek Thriller Trail Runs is a multi-distance trail event held in and around Cave Creek Regional Park and along the Maricopa Trail. The event offers four distances and serves as the opening race of the Fall Desert Runner Trail Series, marking its 17th year.
Distances
- 50K
- 24K
- 11K
- 5K
The 50K course links Lake Pleasant and Cave Creek via the Maricopa Trail and includes sections of the Black Canyon Trail, desert corridors, and climbs before entering Cave Creek Regional Park for a finish on Go John, Quartz and Overton Trails. The 24K follows a similar corridor to the park. The 11K and 5K remain entirely within Cave Creek Regional Park on hilly, single track trails that are exposed, rocky, and offer views of the Sonoran Desert.
Aid stations appear at regular intervals (approximately every 3.0 to 9.25 miles on longer courses) and provide water, electrolyte drink, sweet and salty snacks, and fruit. The event is cupless; runners should bring a reusable cup or purchase one on site.
Logistics include shuttle service from the park to remote starts, a specified bib pickup at the Aravaipa Running warehouse or race day at Cave Creek Regional Park, and designated drop bag options for the 50K and other distances. Pacers are not permitted; crews are allowed at specified locations. Entrant limit is 500 runners.
Event features include chip timing, gender specific cut race shirts, live tracking, a charity beer garden sponsored by Huss Brewing supporting Wilderness Volunteers, post-race food, and awards for top three male and female finishers at each distance. Volunteers receive race credits or merchandise. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
