Christiansen Trail Run - 14 miles
Christiansen Trail Run: a classic 14-mile out-and-back on Phoenix's rugged Trail 100.
Race Date
Jan 2, 2027
Location
Phoenix, AZ
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, January 2, 2027
- Location
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Out & Back
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Course
The Experience
Since 1987, the Christiansen Trail Run has been a Phoenix institution—one of Arizona's earliest organized trail runs. The 14-mile course follows Trail 100 from Mountain View Park to Dreamy Draw and back, a mostly single-track loop through the Sonoran Desert of the North Mountain Preserve. This is a no-frills, backcountry challenge: steep climbs and descents, loose rocks, and rugged terrain underfoot.
The race starts at 7:30 AM in January, when Phoenix offers cool temps (40–63°F) and clear skies. The out-and-back format means you'll tackle the same hills twice, but the desert scenery—saguaros, rocky peaks, and wide-open vistas—keeps the mind off the effort. A 4-hour time limit gives beginners room to hike the steep sections, while veterans can push for a strong finish.
At the finish, runners receive a T-shirt and the satisfaction of conquering a classic. With its accessible yet demanding course, the Christiansen Trail Run remains a favorite for locals and a worthy destination for trail lovers.
Race-provided description
A challenging yet fun event for both the beginner and veteran alike. First run in 1987, the Christiansen Trail Run was one of the earliest organized trail runs in Arizona. The race runs along Trail 100 from Mountain View Park to Dreamy Draw and back. Come enjoy the scenic City of Phoenix North Mountain Preserve. The single track trail consists of steep climbs and descents, with rugged terrain and loose rocks along the way to challenge you.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, January 2, 2027
Start Time
7:30 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt
Start Location
Mountain View Park - Phoenix Mountain Preserve, Phoenix, AZ, 85021
Course Info
Course Type
Out & Back
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Desert, Mountain
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Hilly
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Course Map
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
4 timing sources
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 63°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
40°
Afternoon (High)
63°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.0"
Precipitation
8 mph
Wind
55%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the Christiansen Trail Run - 14 miles?
The Christiansen Trail Run - 14 miles is held on Saturday, January 2, 2027, starting at 7:30 AM.
Where does the Christiansen Trail Run - 14 miles take place?
It takes place in Phoenix, Arizona.
What distances does the Christiansen Trail Run - 14 miles offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the Christiansen Trail Run - 14 miles course flat and good for a PR?
The Christiansen Trail Run - 14 miles is a hilly, out & back course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
Explore More Journeys
Can't make it to Phoenix? Discover other experiences that match your running style.
Search All Races
