Runs with a View in Arizona
As the trend for ‘runcations’ continues to rise, Arizona’s diverse and stunning landscapes offer backdrops that belong on every runner’s bucket list. Sunny deserts offer an ideal escape from cold climates in winter and high deserts and pine trees keep runners cool in the summer. From half marathons to ultras, here are a few exceptional annual races and training spots across the Grand Canyon State for the ultimate running retreat.
Races with One-of-a-Kind Views
It’s thrilling to dash among Sedona’s spectacular red rocks during the annual RunSedona where runners every February choose between a 5K, 10K or a half-marathon. Ideal for runners of all levels, this enchanting town is hailed for its beauty and wellness benefits.
Witness a vibrant sunrise over the majestic Superstition Mountains while jogging past desert fauna on the Lost Dutchman Marathon in Apache Junction, a tricky yet popular Boston Marathon qualifier held annually in February.
Ultra Races with Ultra Views
For those seeking an even more extreme challenge, Arizona offers several “ultra” races, which by definition are longer than a traditional marathon’s 26.2 miles (42.1 kilometres).
There’s no better way to celebrate the Mother Road’s Centennial than running the Route 66 UltraRun held annually in November, where participants can run along the longest remaining stretch of Historic Route 66 in the U.S. Join the new 100-mile race that starts west of Peach Springs and ends in Topock, or the 140-mile race that begins in Seligman where runners can race by on their own or on a relay team to run down the iconic Route that passes through Hackberry and Kingman to cross the finish line in Topock.
The Antelope Canyon Ultras offer race distances up to 50 miles on the Navajo Nation held annually in March. During this event, competitors enjoy vast mesa views, glimpses of Horseshoe Bend and even run through the slot canyons of Upper Antelope Canyon after sunset.
Soak in iconic views at the Monument Valley Ultra, a 50K race through Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park on the Navajo Nation held annually in the spring. Here participants will run up the Mitchell Mesa to reach the rim and see spectacular views of sandstone buttes.
Half Marathons
Sprint across the London Bridge during the Havasu Half Marathon in Lake Havasu City held annually in March, a flat course with rolling hills sprinkled throughout, where participants can soak in views of the shimmering Colorado River.
Embark on a challenging course along the rim of the canyon, taking in one-of-a-kind views when racing the Little Colorado River Half Marathon, held every February within the Little Colorado River Gorge Navajo Tribal Parks on the Navajo Nation.
Gritty runners are eager to race the Whiskey Row Marathon in Prescott every October, one of the toughest races in the country, thanks to the rugged terrain and altitude of one mile above sea level.
Marathons
See the diversity of Phoenix by running the Phoenix Marathon which held its inaugural race last month. Entrants will jog through the city, spotting the towering Piestewa Peak and running along the sandstone formations of Papago Park.
Spot endless saguaros during the Tucson Marathon held every December, which starts at the otherworldly Biosphere 2, to journey along the Santa Catalina Mountains, the desert landscapes of Oro Valley and finish in the outskirts of the city.
Female runners craving community and picturesque courses can join the Every Women’s Marathon in Scottsdale every November to race along the canal, greenbelt and streets of Scottsdale before finishing in Old Town Scottsdale.
Post-race pampering
After exerting energy in the races, visitors can unwind and rejuvenate at one of Arizona’s premier wellness resorts or spas to both mentally and physically recover. From a Nordic Spa in Flagstaff to world-class wellness resorts in Sedona, there’s a perfect recovery retreat waiting no matter where in the Grand Canyon state the race is. Explore Arizona wellness resorts and spas.
Click here for more run-spiration across the state.