Last updated February 5, 2025--
Event dates not confirmed for 2026 yet. The Oracle Rumble, held near the historic town of Oracle, Arizona, is a must-attend event for trail running enthusiasts. Set on the northern side of the Santa Catalina Mountains and organized by the Arizona Trail Association (ATA), this event offers a rugged and rewarding challenge for runners of all levels. The Oracle Rumble takes participants through the stunning landscapes of Oracle State Park and along remote sections of the Arizona National Scenic Trail (AZT), making it a unique experience for those looking to test their endurance on tough singletrack terrain. The constant rolling nature of the course, combined with breathtaking views, makes this race both physically and mentally demanding.
Strambecco rates Oracle Rumble as one of the Best Trail Running Race Events in the Southwest and one of the Best Trail Running Race Events in Arizona. It is also part of the Arizona Triple 50 series, a trio of 50K ultra races in Southern Arizona that includes the Colossal Vail 50/50 and the Old Pueblo Endurance Run, offering runners an unforgettable journey through Arizona's diverse landscapes. Whether you’re an ultra-marathon veteran or looking for a new adventure in the desert, Oracle Rumble promises to deliver a memorable trail running experience.
Event Course & Info
The Oracle Rumble offers multiple race distances, including 50 Mile, 50K, Half-Marathon, and 12K, with the longer ultra-distance courses drawing much of the attention. The courses primarily follow challenging singletrack trails in Oracle State Park and along portions of the Arizona National Scenic Trail. The event is known for its constantly rolling terrain, which means that runners are almost always climbing or descending, creating a course that will push even the most experienced trail runners to their limits.
The 50 Mile Course is the crown jewel of the event, taking runners deep into Oracle State Park and along some of the most remote sections of the AZT. Covering 50 miles of rugged, constantly rolling terrain, the course features significant elevation changes, making it a serious test of endurance and mental toughness. Well-stocked aid stations are located at intervals of every 4-6 miles, providing runners with essential hydration, nutrition, and support. The cutoff time for the 50 Mile race is a generous 15 hours, ensuring participants have enough time to complete this difficult yet rewarding course.
The 50K Course, covering approximately 31 miles, offers a slightly shorter but still demanding challenge. Like the 50 Mile course, it follows the rolling singletrack through Oracle State Park and includes steep climbs and technical sections. The constant elevation changes make it an ideal option for experienced runners looking to push their limits without committing to the full 50 miles. Aid stations spaced along the course ensure runners remain well-supported, with a cutoff time of 11 hours to accommodate all participants.
The Half-Marathon, at 13.1 miles, provides a great opportunity for runners who want to experience the beauty of Oracle State Park without committing to ultra-distances. While shorter, this course is still a challenging run due to the rolling terrain and technical singletrack trails. The half-marathon has a more relaxed cutoff time, giving runners plenty of time to enjoy the race at their own pace.
Lastly, the 12K course, while the shortest at just under 8 miles, offers an introduction to the stunning trails in Oracle State Park. Though less demanding than the other distances, it still includes enough climbing and technical sections to give runners a taste of the unique challenges of desert trail running.
Each distance features multiple aid stations stocked with Tailwind Nutrition, snacks like chips and cookies, and other essential runner-friendly fuel, and race volunteers are always nearby to assist if necessary.
At the finish line, runners are invited to a post-race celebration at La Posta Quemada Ranch, where they can enjoy food, drinks, and camaraderie with fellow participants. Awards are presented to the top finishers in each distance, and every finisher receives a medal and race shirt. Registration is open to all, with no qualifying requirements, though spaces fill quickly. The event encourages early registration to secure your spot.
Related Events
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