Cave Creek Thriller

The Cave Creek Thriller Trail Runs, held in Cave Creek, Arizona, is a celebrated event marking its 16th year as part of the Fall Desert Runner Trail Series. It offers four race distances: 50K, 24K, 11K, and 5K. The 50K and 24K races are point-to-point courses along the scenic Maricopa Trail, connecting Lake Pleasant and Cave Creek Regional Park, featuring rugged desert terrain with significant elevation gains and exposed, rocky sections.

The shorter 11K and 5K races take place entirely within Cave Creek Regional Park on hilly mountain trails with expansive Sonoran Desert views. The event emphasizes sustainability with a cupless race format and provides well-stocked aid stations, shuttle services, and a vibrant post-race atmosphere including a charity beer garden. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.