Elephant Mountain returns to Cave Creek, Arizona on February 6th, offering a challenging array of distances for runners seeking an adventure through the desert. The event takes place in Cave Creek Regional Park, with routes extending into Spur Cross Conservation Area and Tonto National Forest. Runners will encounter various terrains ranging from single-track trails within the park to more rugged paths deep in Tonto National Forest. The atmosphere on race day is likely to be quiet and serene, typical of early morning desert mornings. Elephant Mountain has been a tradition for many years, attracting hundreds of participants annually who are drawn by its unique course offerings through Cave Creek Regional Park and beyond. Runners often cite the opportunity to explore lesser-known trails in Arizona’s desert landscape as one of the event's major draws. The race supports environmental conservation efforts within Spur Cross Ranch and surrounding areas. The Elephant Mountain route features a mix of terrain, from single-track paths winding through scenic canyons near Cave Creek Regional Park for shorter distances like 12K and 6K to more extensive trails that venture further into the desert backcountry. Aid stations are strategically placed along all routes, providing support throughout the race day. On February 6th, runners should expect firm yet slightly soft trail conditions suitable for running, with a UV index of moderate levels due to morning sun exposure in Arizona’s early spring weather. The temperature range will likely be mild but cool during sunrise hours, warming up as the day progresses without reaching oppressive heat by afternoon standards. The race offers an 80.5K distance known as the "50 Miler," a classic 50K course, and shorter options including a 35K, 22K, 12K, and 6K run through Cave Creek Regional Park and beyond.
50 Miler 80.5K • Start: 06:00:00 • Fee: $170.00
50K 50K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $130.00
35K 35K • Start: 07:30:00 • Fee: $90.00
22K 22K • Start: 07:45:00 • Fee: $70.00
12K 12K • Start: 08:15:00 • Fee: $55.00
6K 6K • Start: 08:30:00 • Fee: $45.00
For registration, participants can sign up online at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=138347 until the Monday prior to race day. Late registrations are available during packet pickup on February 5th at either of two designated locations in Cave Creek. Participants must be present with a photo ID and any required payment. Packet pick-up will take place from noon to 6 PM on Sunday, February 5th at the Cave Creek Community Park pavilion where runners can collect their bib numbers along with UltrAspire reusable cups or bring personal hydration systems for cupless events. On race day morning, participants should arrive early enough to complete a brief packet check-in process before starting times. The start and finish line are located within Cave Creek Regional Park’s main entrance area near the community pavilion where all runners will gather at 5 AM sharp on February 6th. Runners must be over 18 years of age or have parental consent if under 18 for any distance offered by Elephant Mountain. Elephant Mountain in Cave Creek, Arizona is a well-established event that offers unique trail running experiences across varied desert landscapes and terrains. The race’s commitment to reducing environmental impact through cupless events makes it not only challenging but also responsible towards nature conservation efforts locally.
Races Offered
50 Miler
Feb 06, 2027
straighten
Distance —
80.5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
06:00
sell
$170.00
50K
Feb 06, 2027
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Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:00
sell
$130.00
35K
Feb 06, 2027
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Distance —
35K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:30
sell
$90.00
22K
Feb 06, 2027
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Distance —
22K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:45
sell
$70.00
12K
Feb 06, 2027
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Distance —
12K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:15
sell
$55.00
6K
Feb 06, 2027
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Distance —
6K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:30
sell
$45.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for February in Cave Creek.
thermostatTemperature
9.0° / 18.4°
wb_sunnyFeels like
4.2° / 13.8°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 35m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.6 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
12.4 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (3.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
41.4%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:11
nightlight
Sunset
18:10
About Cave Creek
Learn more about the host city, Cave Creek.
Cave Creek is a small town north of Phoenix and part of the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is a popular destination for equestrians, bikers, and those seeking high-end resort lifestyles.
