Copper Corridor

The Copper Corridor Trail Runs return to Superior, Arizona on February 27th for their eighth annual event. Runners will start and finish downtown along Main Street in the heart of this historic mining town before venturing out into Arnette Canyon where they'll encounter a riparian wonderland filled with flowing creeks, towering rock formations, and dense sycamore trees. The trail winds through rugged desert landscapes featuring Saguaro cacti forests and rocky vistas reminiscent of both the Superstition Wilderness and Bryce Canyon National Park.
On race morning in February, runners can expect mild temperatures around 50°F to 60°F as they set off from Superior Public Pool at various start times depending on their chosen distance. The atmosphere is one of quiet anticipation with participants gathering early before heading out onto the trails that wind through Arizona's scenic and historically rich Copper Corridor region.
Since its inception, this event has grown steadily each year by attracting trail runners eager to explore lesser-known areas near Phoenix while supporting local businesses and community initiatives in Superior. Whether it’s the 50K circumnavigation around Picketpost Mountain or any of the shorter distances that showcase the area's natural beauty and cultural heritage, participants find themselves immersed in a unique blend of adventure and history.
The course for all races begins westward from downtown Superior along Main Street before transitioning into Arnette Canyon where runners will experience diverse terrain including soft trails near waterways and firmer paths through rocky outcroppings. Aid stations are strategically placed every 2 to 10 miles, providing essential supplies such as water, electrolyte drinks, snacks, and fruit.
February weather in Superior typically offers firm but slightly soft trail conditions with a moderate UV index of around 3. Runners should prepare for mild temperatures ranging from the high forties to mid-sixties Fahrenheit alongside possible light winds and no significant precipitation risk, ensuring comfortable racing conditions throughout the day.

The Copper Corridor Trail Runs offer four distinct distances: 50K, a full-day adventure circumnavigating Picketpost Mountain; 32K for those seeking a challenging yet manageable half-day trek through Arnette Canyon and beyond; 17K for runners looking to enjoy the scenic beauty of Arizona's Copper Corridor over an afternoon outing; and finally, a more relaxed but equally rewarding option in the form of the 12K race. Each distance provides unique opportunities to explore historical mining sites while enjoying breathtaking desert landscapes.
Runners can register online at [https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=138275](https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=138275) with fees starting from $55 for the 12K to $130 for the full 50K. Early registration closes on January 31st, followed by a second deadline of February 16th.
Bib pickup is available both Friday evening at Main Street Superior and Saturday morning near each race start location in downtown Superior or at the public pool depending on distance. Participants should bring photo ID for identification purposes during bib collection times specified above.
The race starts from 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM across multiple distances, with all runners finishing back in downtown Superior along Main Street after a day of challenging and scenic trail running through Arizona’s Copper Corridor region. Age requirements vary by distance but generally apply standard adult classifications for the longer races while allowing younger participants under 16 years old if accompanied by an adult.
The Copper Corridor Trail Runs, held on February 27th in Superior, AZ, is a unique opportunity to explore one of Arizona’s hidden gems through challenging yet rewarding trail runs. Whether you’re drawn by history and natural beauty or simply seeking an adventurous day out, this race offers something for every level of runner.