2026 AZT Vail Scramble

The 2026 AZT Vail Scramble will take place on Sunday, April 12, 2026, in Vail, Arizona, United States. This point-to-point trail event traverses Passages 6 and 7 of the Arizona Trail (AZT), offering runners a challenging route through the desert landscape between the Santa Rita and Rincon Mountains. The event supports the Arizona Trail Association’s mission to maintain and protect the Arizona National Scenic Trail. On the day of the event, participants can expect partly cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from a high of 72°F to a low of 46°F, making for comfortable running conditions. The course features varying terrain, including dirt roads, desert flora, and elevation changes, providing a unique experience for runners of all levels.

What distances are available for this event?

• →Marathon — 26.6 miles (slightly long)
• →Half-Marathon — 13.1 miles
• →10K — 6.2 miles

What is the course like?

The marathon starts south of Vail, following the AZT north and including a short dirt road segment within the first mile, with challenging ups and downs along the foothills of the Santa Rita Mountains. The half-marathon also begins south of Vail with a 0.3-mile dirt road segment, followed by a mostly gentle, winding descent through desert landscape including ocotillo, prickly pear cactus, creosote, and mesquite. The 10K starts near Sahuarita Road and Hwy 83, running the final 6.2 miles of the marathon course, also featuring a gentle descent through the desert.

Where is the event held?

The event is held in Vail, Arizona, with the start and finish line at the Gabe Zimmerman Trailhead. Parking and check-in take place at the Vail School District, 13801 E. Benson Highway, Vail, AZ 85641.

What is the schedule for the event?

Check-in opens at 5:00 AM. Marathon bus departs at 5:30 AM with a start time of 6:15 AM. Half-Marathon bus departs at 6:30 AM, with a start time of 7:00 AM. The 10K bus departs at 7:15 AM, with a start time of 7:35 AM. The course closes at 2:00 PM.

What are the time limits for the event?

The marathon has a cutoff of 7 hours 45 minutes. Runners must reach the Sahuarita Road Aid Station (mile 20) by 12:00 PM, which is 5:45 hours of running.

What is the cupless policy for the event?

This is a CUPLESS event — no paper cups at aid stations. Participants are encouraged to bring their own water bottle or hydration pack, or purchase a collapsible cup at packet pick-up for $3. Aid stations provide water and Skratch Labs hydration via 5-gallon containers.

Where can I pick up my race packet?

Packet pick-up is available on Saturday, April 11, from 2:00–5:00 PM at Fleet Feet Tucson, 7301 E Tanque Verde Rd. Race morning packet pick-up is also available at the Vail School District parking area.

What happens at the finish line?

Post-race festivities take place at the Gabe Zimmerman Trailhead, featuring fresh food and cold beverages for all participants.

What is included in the registration?

Registration includes access to the event, aid stations, and post-race amenities. Additional details about what is included can be found on the event's official website.

What is the course map and elevation profile?

The course map and elevation profiles are available at runazt.org ↗.