New Trail Run at Empire Ranch
Events
5k Run/Walk
1 Mile Walk/Run
91 spots left. Registration ends January 24, 2026 at 11:59pm MST
Children's Mile: 14-and-under
Event Description
Save the date for this exciting new run/walk event! The first-ever "Empire Ranch Run" will include a 10k Trail Run, a 5k Trail Run/Walk, and a 1 mile family-friendly trail walk/run.
Run Tucson is joining partner Empire Ranch Foundation and the Bureau of Land Management for the inaugural Empire Ranch Run. This event, held at the Historic Empire Ranch on Las Cienegas National Conservation Area, will feature a 5K, 10K, and family mile.
It will also include demonstrations/displays depicting ranch life and the history of the Historic Empire Ranch to kick off the Empire Ranch Foundation's yearlong 150th anniversary celebration and will honor America's 250th anniversary.
Whether you sign up for the race or just want to be a spectator, there will be fun for everyone!
For the first-time ever, runners can run or walk on trails among the beautiful rolling grasslands near the famed Empire Ranch, in the high Sonoran Desert of the Las Cienegas National Conservation Area (LCNCA), located just 50 miles southeast of Tucson, and 10 miles north of Sonoita.The Empire Ranch has never been used for a running event, so if you haven't been out here, you should grab the chance to join us at one of Arizona's most famous locations!
The Empire Ranch Run is raising funds for the Empire Ranch Foundation to protect, restore and sustain the Empire Ranch historical buildings and landscape as an outstanding western heritage and education center.
Run Tucson's newest event is capped at 500 total registrants -- what you get:
- Souvenir race shirt
- Age group and overall awards
- Post-race snacks and goodies
- Post-race Empire Ranch activities, including demonstrations, vendors, and more
- Timed 10k run with finisher's video
- Timed 5k Run/Walk with finisher's video
- A 1 mile walk/run with finisher's video, perfect for first-time trail runners and those who like walking in the great outdoors!
Contact Form
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Event Location
16655 E Empire Ranch Rd
Sonoita, AZ 85637 US
View Location on Map
Donate
$1,025
Raised of $1,000
Terrain: Combination of dirt trails, BLM 2-track, cattle paths, and Empire Ranch lands.
Cows: They'll be around.
Difficulty: The trail we're planning is generally a "green" in terms of technical terrain, with some rocky sections and rolling hills.
Weather: Probably a low in the 40's early in the morning, rising perhaps into the 70's throughout the day.
Differently Abled: This course is not suitable for chair athletes. The rugged nature may make the course very difficult for visually impaired athletes.
Pets: Dogs are not permitted on the running courses.
Parking: There is plenty of parking on site at the Empire Ranch, but you may wish to consider carpooling with your running friends!
Want Training Advice? Contact RRCA-certified running coach Tia Accetta at tia@runtucson.net.
Location photos courtesy of Randy Accetta, bike riding to develop the route.
