Mesquite Canyon 2027

Mesquite Canyon is a spring desert trail race held in White Tank Mountain Regional Park, Waddell, Arizona. Distances range from a Kid's Fun Run and 8K to 30K, a half marathon, 50K, and 50 miles. All races utilize single-track trails. The longer courses are entirely unpaved, featuring rocky, sandy terrain with classic Sonoran Desert footing: cactus, gravel, boulders, washes, and significant climbs. The event began in 2010 and limits participation to 600 runners. The 50K and 50-mile participants encounter the most challenging section of the course. This includes a two-mile stretch through Ford Canyon with downhill granite rock scrambles, sand, and boulders beneath the White Tank formations. The route begins at approximately 1,500 feet and ascends to about 3,000 feet, offering expansive views toward Phoenix across the White Tank Mountains. Mesquite Canyon also marks the seventh and final event in Aravaipa Running's Desert Runner Trail Series, attracting runners completing that Arizona series and ultrarunners seeking a demanding desert course.