The Mayhem Night Trail returns to Fort Mcdowell, Arizona on December 5th as part of the McDowell Mountain Frenzy Trail Runs series. This night event is the third race in the Fall Sunset Series and offers runners a unique trail experience under moonlight along with competitive day racers from the same mountain trails. The setting for Mayhem Night Trail is set within McDowell Mountains, where participants will navigate winding single-track trails that feature short but steep climbs and drops. Runners can expect cooler temperatures and firm yet slightly soft ground conditions on race morning, providing a challenging terrain under the moonlit sky of Fort Mcdowell's December night. Established as part of the Fall Sunset Series since 2018, Mayhem Night Trail has gained popularity among trail runners for its distinct nighttime challenge. The event supports local conservation efforts and environmental initiatives by promoting cupless events to reduce waste. With a growing number of participants each year, it continues to be an integral part of Fort Mcdowell's running community. The course venue is located within McDowell Mountains in the surrounding area of Cave Creek and Usery Mountain trails. The terrain features winding single-track paths with brief but steep ascents and descents across various sections of the park. Runners will traverse through well-lit trailheads while sharing space with day racers, adding an element of camaraderie to the event. Weather conditions on race morning are expected to be cool with firm yet slightly soft ground trails underfoot. The UV index is low at 2.0, suggesting minimal sun exposure for runners navigating the night course. Runners should prepare for cooler temperatures and clear skies without any significant risk of precipitation or wind interference during their run.
25K 25K • Start: 18:00:00 • Fee: $80.00
10 Miler 16.1K • Start: 18:15:00 • Fee: $60.00
5 Miler 8K • Start: 18:30:00 • Fee: $45.00
For registration details, visit the Mayhem Night Trail website or use this direct link: https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=134110. The online registration closes on the Monday before December 5th and late registrations are available at packet pickup locations as indicated on the race website. Bib pick-up will be held from November 28-December 4, either in-person or by mail order via the provided address details. The start location for Mayhem Night Trail is situated at McDowell Mountain Park Drive within Fort Mcdowell's trail network boundaries. Age requirements are not specified but typically participants should be prepared to meet standard running age guidelines. All runners must ensure they have adequate gear and clothing suitable for nighttime conditions, including headlamps or flashlights. The Mayhem Night Trail in Fort Mcdowell on December 5th is a standout event that brings together trail enthusiasts from across Arizona's landscape under the cool glow of night skies, offering both challenge and community engagement.
Races Offered
25K
Dec 05, 2026
straighten
Distance —
25K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
18:00
sell
$80.00
10 Miler
Dec 05, 2026
straighten
Distance —
16.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
18:15
sell
$60.00
5 Miler
Dec 05, 2026
straighten
Distance —
8K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
18:30
sell
$45.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for December in Fort McDowell.
thermostatTemperature
8.4° / 21.5°
wb_sunnyFeels like
4.7° / 18.4°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
8h 38m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
0.4 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
6.3 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Low (2.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
41.2%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:23
nightlight
Sunset
17:21
About Fort McDowell
Learn more about the host city, Fort McDowell.
Fort McDowell is an unincorporated community in Maricopa County, Arizona, United States. Fort McDowell is 23 miles northeast of Phoenix. Fort McDowell has a post office with ZIP code 85264. It is part of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Reservation.