About This Race
Part of the Insomniac Night Trail Run Series, Adrenaline Night Runs offers runners the chance to experience the Sonoran Desert's nocturnal beauty through multiple distance options ranging from 6K to 50K. Set in Arizona's McDowell Mountain Regional Park, this well-established event has been challenging runners since 2013 with its unique nighttime format. The race takes place entirely after dark, creating an otherworldly experience as headlamps illuminate the desert landscape. Runners navigate a combination of the park's signature trails including Escondido, Scenic, Cinch, and Shallmo, each offering distinct terrain challenges and spectacular views under the stars. The event's multiple distance options make it accessible to runners seeking everything from a nighttime introduction to desert running to a serious ultramarathon challenge. As the second race in the six-event Insomniac series, many participants use Adrenaline as either a standalone adventure or part of a broader night running campaign. The desert setting provides consistent weather conditions and unique terrain that differs significantly from typical mountain or forest trail races.
The courses utilize McDowell Mountain Regional Park's trail network, featuring classic Sonoran Desert terrain with singletrack paths winding through saguaro cactus forests, over rolling hills, and across desert washes. The Escondido, Scenic, Cinch, and Shallmo trails combine to create loop configurations for each distance, with the longest efforts requiring multiple loops.
Runners can expect typical desert trail conditions including rocky sections, sandy washes, and moderate elevation changes characteristic of the Sonoran landscape. The nighttime format adds navigation complexity while showcasing the desert's nocturnal character, from wildlife sounds to the interplay of artificial light against natural desert features.
Location
Practical Info
Late May desert conditions with warm daytime temperatures cooling to comfortable running weather after dark, typically 60-75°F during race hours.
PHX - Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
Fountain Hills and nearby Scottsdale offer various lodging options, from desert resorts to standard hotels, approximately 30-45 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.
- Headlamp
- Handheld light
Best For
Notable Features
The race's nighttime format transforms the desert experience, with runners' headlamps creating moving constellations across the landscape while revealing the Sonoran Desert's nocturnal character. As part of the Insomniac Night Trail Run Series, it offers runners the opportunity to pursue a unique six-race challenge focused entirely on night running, making it particularly appealing to those seeking something different from typical daytime trail races.