TMC Saguaro National Park Labor Day 8-Miler/5k

🌵 Event Overview

September 2nd Update: Thanks to the almost 900 folks who registered for the 2024 event! And thanks to the National Park Service for raising the race-day cap and for all the great work they did to welcome us to Saguaro National Park, Tucson's desert treasure!

🏃‍♀️ Registration Information

The Original Saguaro! This is the only Saguaro race that takes place within the actual-factual cactus forest of Saguaro National Park. Stunning views, iconic imagery, and a course that will blow you away! If you're ready for an adventure that combines nature and fitness, then get ready for the 53rd Annual Saguaro National Park Labor Day 8-Miler and 5 Run/Walk, one of 3 races in America actually held within the grounds of a National Park.

• Participants: Capped at 800 total participants.
• Pricing: Your race entry includes an entrance pass to the Saguaro National Park.
• Savings: You can save $15 on your registration by submitting your National Park Service number during registration.
• More Info: Click here for information on how to purchase a National Park Pass.

🥇 Awards and Fun

Prize money for course records, age group and overall awards, a souvenir shirt, and post-race fun for all. Your race entry provides a day pass into Saguaro National Park. Produced by the Southern Arizona Roadrunners, whose original founders created the race back in 1971.

• Video: Click here for a nifty video put together by Saguaro National Park Ranger Cam Juarez.

🗓️ 2025 Planned Schedule

Saturday, August 30th 10:00 am - 1:00 pm: Packet Pickup and In-Person Registration at The Running Shop, 3055 North Campbell Avenue, Tucson, AZ

• Packet Pickup: Dynamic bib system: volunteers will assist with bib assignment.
• Shirt Sizes: Available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Registration: Available through RunSignup, cash or check on Saturday.
• Saturday Sales: The Running Shop is having a Labor Day sale.

🏞️ Race Day Details

Race Day Monday, September 1st at Saguaro National Park East, 3693 S. Old Spanish Trail Rd, Visitor Center Parking Lot

• Packet Pickup: 5:00 am - 5:45 am: no in-person registration on race day.
• 8-Mile Early Start: 5:30 am: early start for walkers only.
• 8-Mile Run Start: 6:00 am: all participants must start by 6:04 am for awards.
• 5K Start: 6:05 am: all participants must start within 5 minutes of the gun.

🚧 Course Information

8-Mile Course: The loop 8 miler goes clockwise from the Visitor Center through the cactus forest, with stunning views of the Sonoran Desert.

• 5k Course: Out-and-back on paved rolling hills.
• Water Stops: 8-Mile at 3 and 7 miles, 5k at approximately the 1 and 2 mile marks.
• Volunteers: Check the volunteer link here.
• Weather: Anticipated high 70's at the start, rising to triple digits.

🚷 Race Guidelines

• Headphones: Discouraged due to safety concerns.
• Strollers: The 5k is stroller-friendly, but the 8-miler is not recommended.
• Pets: Not allowed in the park: see here for details.
• Parking: Follow posted rules, and consider carpooling.

🌲 Saguaro Beneficiaries

• National Park Service: Requests participants pay the standard $5 entry fee.
• Friends of Saguaro: Donations will help support the park.
• Southern Arizona Roadrunners: Event raises funds for SAR and youth fitness programs.

🔗 Additional Resources

For more information and updates, visit the race webpage: Saguaro National Park Labor Day 8-Miler/5k.