Events
5k Run/Walk
257 spots left. Price increases after December 31, 2026 at 11:59pm MST
1 Mile Walk/Run
30 spots left. Price increases after December 31, 2026 at 11:59pm MST
Children's Mile: 10-and-under
25 spots left. Registration ends January 23, 2027 at 11:59pm MST
Parent's One-Mile
Event Description
2nd Annual Empire Ranch Trail Run
Saturday January 23, 2027
Save the date for this boutique trail run, an exciting run/walk event, including a 10k Trail Run, a 5k Trail Run/Walk, and a 1 mile family-friendly trail walk/run.
- Scenic trails in the Cienega Grasslands, between the Mustang Mountains and the majestic Santa Rita Mountains
- Souvenir sublimated shirt to first 600 registrants
- Souvenir medal for sale as add-on
- Event Day demonstrations and displays depicting ranch life and the history of the historic Empire Ranch
- Overall and Age Group Awards from The Running Shop
- Post-race snacks and goodies, with food trucks for additional purchase
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.
Produced by Run Tucson in partnership with the Empire Ranch Foundation and the Bureau of Land Management, this is the only running event held at the Historic Empire Ranch on the beautiful Las Cienegas National Conservation Area.
Whether you run, walk, volunteer, or just want to be watch and cheer, there will be fun for everyone!
"Are we having fun? Who doesn’t like a little mud and cow pies? Seriously it was GREAT to be out, gorgeous views and the weather was perfect. The weather forecasters wanted to stress us but it didn’t work. Thank you and the Ranch for all the work in organizing it." M.O.
2026 photos:
Photos: Damion Alexander's photos can be found at his smug mug page here.
Race Director snapshot photos can be found at the link above.
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.
Contact Form
Event Location
16655 E Empire Ranch Rd
Sonoita, AZ 85637 US
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