This is a route the celebrates the fact that Tucson is the winter trail running capitol of the United States. With three mountain ranges, numerous wilderness and protected areas, and Saguaro National Park. The Tukcson Mountain 50 is a celebration of Tucson Mountain Park and Saguaro National Park West and demonstrates the serious nature of trail in the Tucson Mountain community. Technical lava fields, MTB buttery smooth fast single track, Cactus to Pine forests, Tucson has it all. Enjoy running in 70 degree weather in January, dodge El Cap Style granite monolith slabs at 9000 feet in January, we have it all. This writer has wanted to establish a route that others will enjoy repeating. Access abound with several accessible trailheads on the route for supported, self supported efforts. One "food court" exists on the route at Tucson's "Desert Museum". This route is best run with support as no natural water sources exist on the route. It is best run in Winter as this route stays below 5000 feet in elevation. In the summer the temps will be will over 100 during the day. City, County, and NPS rules state that all sections of this trail are generally open from "dawn to dusk". Before and after these times access is not restricted, however in some parts of these parks you may be fined from using the trails in the dark. For hikers the route does include at least one campground in the middle of the route and runs close to several popular picnic areas. On the route you will be treated to views of 5 mountain ranges including the Tucson Mountains, Tortolita Mountains, and famous "Sky Island" mountain ranges such as the Santa Catalina Mountains, Rincon Mountains (Cew Doʼag), and Santa Rita Mountains, all bordering Tucson metro area.
The Tucson mountains are a running, hiking, and riding gem of the American Southwest. They are rugged, and depending on the weather dangerous as well. During monsoon, wash trails are impassible, if not fatal. Winter can bring rare snow, and Spring, Summer, and Fall can bring nearly 100% sun exposure at over 100 degrees. Fast runner will discover a reason for ego in Tukcson's winter running season. Endurance runners seeking heat training are welcome anytime of the year. Come make this a classic.
