Crown King Scramble

The Crown King Scramble returns to Phoenix, Arizona on March 20th for its 35th running as one of the longest-standing ultra-distance races in the region. This historic race spans a challenging 50 kilometers from Lake Pleasant Regional Park through the heart of the Sonoran Desert and up into the cool Ponderosa pines above Crown King. Participants start lakeside at dawn on March 20th, facing tough technical terrain with significant climbs as they progress towards their finish line in the historic town.
The early morning setting is stark and dramatic: runners begin just before sunrise along the shores of Lake Pleasant Regional Park, a serene yet bustling starting point that marks both an end to civilization and a beginning for serious trail running. The race route takes competitors through varied desert landscapes with rolling hills punctuated by saguaro cacti before ascending into more rugged terrain where jeep roads and steep ascents challenge even the most experienced runners. As they approach Crown King, temperatures drop significantly, offering welcome relief from the earlier heat as participants wind their way to the finish line at the celebrated Crown King Saloon.
This event has been a cornerstone of Arizona's ultra-running community for decades, drawing hundreds of competitors annually who come together not just to test themselves against challenging terrain but also in support of local conservation efforts. The race is renowned among trail runners looking to make that leap into longer distances with its unique blend of technical difficulty and scenic beauty.
The Crown King Scramble unfolds primarily on dirt roads with significant elevation changes, offering both sustained climbs and exhilarating descents throughout the course's 50 kilometers. Runners will encounter a variety of terrains including jeep tracks, packed earth trails, and rocky sections that make this race uniquely challenging yet rewarding for those who thrive in technical conditions. The route features one major climb covering four thousand feet from mile fifteen to twenty-nine, leading up into cooler pine forests high above the desert floor.
Weather on March 20th typically presents firm trail conditions with a slight give underfoot and UV levels classified as moderate at an index of 4. This means that while runners will enjoy clear skies for optimal visibility, they should be prepared for sun protection given the potential for strong sunlight early in the day when temperatures are cooler but still climbing to their peak later on.
The Crown King Scramble offers a single distance option: a grueling yet rewarding 50 kilometers through some of Arizona's most stunning and varied landscapes.