ARIZONA TRAIL RACE FAQ

The Arizona Trail Race FAQ is here to help you navigate the brutal reality of bikepacking across the Arizona desert. The AZTR isn’t just a race—it’s a battle against oppressive heat, relentless climbs, rocky singletrack, and some of the longest dry stretches of any ultra-endurance event. Whether you’re taking on the full 800-mile route or the shorter 300-mile version, this race demands careful planning, strategic resupply, and absolute self-sufficiency.

Much of the information in this Arizona Trail Race FAQ comes from the Project’s Arizona Trail Race Rider Survey, where past participants share firsthand insights on what gear worked, where to find water, and how to survive the desert extremes. If you’ve raced the AZTR, take the survey and help the next generation of riders prepare for one of the toughest bikepacking challenges out there.

For even more in-depth resources, check out our Arizona Trail Race Resource Page. Whether you need information on water sources, resupply, gear choices, or race strategy, we’ve got you covered. Start preparing today and take on the Arizona desert with confidence!

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TRAVEL TO AND FROM

Arizona Trail Race FAQ

With the start of the 300-mile and 800-mile routes on the Mexico border, Tucson is the best option to fly into.  However, the real challenge is getting to the actual start at Monument 103. Limited transportation options mean riders must plan ahead to arrange a shuttle, find a ride, or organize their own transport. Similarly, getting home from the finish at the Utah border requires advance planning, as services are extremely minimal.

This section of the Arizona Trail Race FAQ answers common questions about getting to the start and leaving from the finish, including flights, shuttles, and bike shipping options.

Ensure your travel plans are seamless and stress-free. Find detailed information on getting to and from the Arizona Trail Race at the following:

Q:  What airports are best to fly into?

A:  The best airport to fly into is Tucson International Airport (TUS) as it’s closest to the start. 

More Travel Help

Q:  What airport(s) are best to fly home from?

A:  The best options are:

  • AZTR300: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
  • AZTR800: Flagstaff Pulliam Airport is the closest option at about 3 hours from the finish, though it’s much smaller than either Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) at 5 h 40m and 364 mi (586 km) or Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) at 5 h 10 m and 318 mi (512 km).

Q:  What options are there for getting from Tuscon to Monument 103/Start?

A:  There are various private shuttle options.

See our Arizona Trail Transportation Guide for details.

Q:  What options are there for getting from the finish back to the airport?

A:  There are various private shuttle options. Many riders rely on friends/family.

See our Arizona Trail Transportation Guide for details.

Q:  If I want to ship my bike, what are my options?

A:  You can contact a local shop in Tucson that can receive your bike (and build it up if you want). This is better than shipping it to a hotel, since you eliminate extra travel to with your bike. Thus giving you more travel options by not having the bike.

Q:  Do most people ship or fly with their bike?

A:  Most people choose to drive with their bikes to the start.

See our Shipping or Flying With Your Bike post for more on the subject.

Q:  Where can I get a box to ship/fly my bike after I finish?

A:  Flagstaff, Phoenix, and SLC all have plenty of bike shops where one can get a box.

Bike Flights will also ship you an empty box that you can ship your bike with them.

Q:  I’m flying from outside North America, what do I need to have for paperwork (Passport / Vivas)?

A:  There are various items you would need, including and not limited to: Passport, VWP and ESTA for the US or B-1 or B-2. 

See our Bikepacking in the USA / Canada guide for more on this.

International Travel Help

Q:  Do I need a returned flight booked as a non US citizen?

A:  Passengers traveling to the US under the VWP must have a valid ticket for a confirmed return or onward flight from the US within 90 days of arrival.

Q:  What address do I use for the forms mentioned above?

A:  Most individuals just use one of the hotels they will be staying at during their stay.

LOGISTICS

Arizona Trail Race FAQ

Dialing in your logistics for the Arizona Trail Race is essential, as the route presents unique challenges that require careful planning. Unlike other bikepacking races, the AZTR demands riders manage extreme temperature swings, long water carries, and rugged desert terrain with limited support options. From resupply strategies to water sourcing and pacing through relentless climbs, this section of the Arizona Trail Race FAQ answers key questions to help you prepare.

For even more in-depth planning, check out our Arizona Trail Race Planning Guide and get the insights you need to tackle this demanding route with confidence!

Q:  How / When can I register?

A:  About one month before the start of the race a post will be made on the official race website, and it usually shows up in the Facebook group, which you can use to register.

Q:  When is the event?

A:  The AZTR starts on the third Thursday of October at 6 am. 

Q:  Where is the start?

A:  The AZTR starts at Monument 103 which is on the border of Arizona and Mexico.

Q:  Where can I find the GPX file?

A:  You can find the GPX file at the official website.

Q:  How does Spot Tracking work?

A:  The same post on the official website and the Facebook group that you register with, has a section to allow one to register their own SPOT or rent one. Rental SPOT trackers are picked up at the start, the person changes from year to year, so look for a name in your registration email.

See our post, SPOT Tracker – Trackleaders Set Up for more. 

Q:  Where can I find the rules?

A:  The rules can be found at the official website.

Q:  When is the best time to start the route outside of the event?

A:  Snow levels and summer temperatures are the biggest factors in answering this. Most years it’s early spring or fall. 

Q:  Where do I find the Unofficial Starters List?

A:  There is no list, but once Trackleaders goes live one can see who is racing there.

Q:  Where can I stay in Tucson?

A:  There are multiple hotel, and Air BnB options.

Q:  What is the average cost?

A:  The average answer is $1-$4999 USD.

ROUTE

Arizona Trail Race FAQ

Understanding the route is critical when preparing for the Arizona Trail Race, as it presents unique challenges unlike any other bikepacking race. The AZTR follows the rugged and remote Arizona Trail, spanning either 300 miles from Mexico border to Picketpost Trailhead or 800 miles from the Mexico border to Utah. Riders must contend with relentless desert terrain, extreme temperature swings, water scarcity, and long stretches without resupply. Navigating through high-elevation sky islands, technical singletrack, and exposed desert sections requires both skill and strategy.

This section of the Arizona Trail Race FAQ answers key questions about navigation, terrain, and what to expect along the way.

For additional support, the Project’s Arizona Trail Race Planning Aids provide detailed mileage, elevation gain/loss, resupply locations, and more to help you prepare for the challenges ahead.

Q:  How long is the Arizona Trail Race?

A:  Below is the distance for both the 10k and full GPX files

AZT300

  • 10K GPX:  308 mi (496 km)
  • Full GPX:  315 mi (507 km)

AZT800

  • 10K GPX:  808 mi (1300 km)
  • Full GPX:  838 mi (1349 km)

Q:  What is the terrain like?

A:  The route is consider to be one, if not the hardest bikepacking event out there. It has more singletrack than any other event. The terrain is mostly desert with multiple mountain ranges thrown in where you’ll find tall ponderosas. It very dry, rocky, and quite difficult. The below numbers are based off the Full GPX. 

AZT800
Total miles: 836.6*
Singletrack: 555.5 miles (66.4%)
Dirt Roads: 227.5 miles (27.2%)
Pavement: 53.6 miles (6.4%)
AZT300
Total miles: 313.0*
Singletrack: 232.7 miles (74.3%)
Dirt Roads: 61.6 miles (19.7%)
Pavement: 18.7 miles (6.0%)
*These were done before recent additions to the trail, hence why their shorter than the current GPX mileage.

Q:  What is the total elevation gain?

A:  The total elevation gain:

AZT300

  • 10K GPX:  43,886′ (13,376 m)

AZT800

  • 10K GPX:  83,353′ (25.406 m)

Q:  Which section has the most elevation gain?

A:  If you break the AZT300 up into 100 mile sections the elevation gain is very close. The middle 100 miles from Hwy. 83 to Summerhaven has the most, at 14,753′ (4497 m).

For the 800, the section of trail between Saguaro Lake Marina and the top of the Mogollon Rim is 115.5 mi (186 km ) and has 19,895′ (6064 m) of climbing.

Q:  What is the highest point on the route?

A: The highest point is the North Rim of the Grand Canyon at 9151 feet (2789 m).

Q:  Are there any elevation profiles?

A:  John Schillingsworth has elevation profiles, you can find them here.

Q:  Where can I find a snow level report?

A:  The NOAA Snowtel Report is the best option. At the Arizona Trail Association website you can find weather reports for each passage of the route.

Q:  Where can I find a fire report?

A:  The WATCH DUTY (wild fire app) is a great resource.

Q:  What temperature range will I encounter on the route?

Month Southern Terminus (Near Sierra Vista, ~4,600 ft)
High / Low
Central Region (Near Payson, ~5,000 ft)
High / Low
Northern Terminus (Near Flagstaff, ~7,000 ft)
High / Low
March 70°F / 21.1°C | 40°F / 4.4°C 61°F / 16.1°C | 30°F / -1.1°C 50°F / 10.0°C | 20°F / -6.7°C
April 78°F / 25.6°C | 45°F / 7.2°C 70°F / 21.1°C | 35°F / 1.7°C 60°F / 15.6°C | 25°F / -3.9°C
May 85°F / 29.4°C | 50°F / 10.0°C 79°F / 26.1°C | 42°F / 5.6°C 69°F / 20.6°C | 32°F / 0.0°C
September 82°F / 27.8°C | 50°F / 10.0°C 77°F / 25.0°C | 45°F / 7.2°C 71°F / 21.7°C | 40°F / 4.4°C
October 75°F / 23.9°C | 45°F / 7.2°C 66°F / 18.9°C | 35°F / 1.7°C 60°F / 15.6°C | 30°F / -1.1°C
November 65°F / 18.3°C | 35°F / 2.0°C 55°F / 13.0°C | 27°F / -2.8°C 50°F / 10.0°C | 20°F / -6.7°C

Q:  Where do I find the best maps for the route?

A:  The Arizona Trail Association has mtb specific maps for each of the 43 passages that make up the route online. They also have an entire page on their site with links to different map resources.  The route can also be found on the Far Out app too.

Q:  Where can I find cue sheets for the route?

A:  Cue Sheets are available for the AZT, at the following link

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RESUPPLY

Arizona Trail Race FAQ

Resupply planning is one of the most critical aspects of preparing for the Arizona Trail Race, as options are extremely limited. Unlike races with frequent towns and services, the AZTR demands careful food and water management, with some of the longest dry stretches of any bikepacking race. Riders must plan ahead for water caches, natural sources that may be unreliable, and strategic resupply stops to avoid running out of essentials in the remote Arizona backcountry.

This section of the Arizona Trail Race FAQ answers key questions about where and how to restock along the route.

The Project’s Arizona Trail Race Planning Aids are an invaluable resource, providing detailed information on resupply locations, water sources, and other essential services. Start planning today with the Project’s Planning Aids to ensure you’re fully prepared for the challenges ahead.

Q:  What are the resupply options like?

A: Resupply options range in size and quality. The 300 only has two resupply options on route. The 800 has six resupply options on route. Both have multiple off route options. There are some long stretches without resupply so careful planning is critical.

Checkout The Project’s AZTR Resupply Guide for resupply and planning strategies. 

Q:  Is there a water report?

A:  The FarOut App now is the main source for the water report; and you can find water listed on The Project’s Planning Aids too. 

Q:  Can one ship themselves a package?

A:  The rules do allow riders to pre-ship themselves a package to post offices, but is not encouraged.

Arizona Trail Race Planning Aids

Click “Buy Now” button below to visit our store with larger examples and more details.

Our Arizona Trail Race Planning Aids include four distinct styles to help you plan your ride:

  • The Data Sheet: Offers the most detailed information, including distance, elevation +/-, resupply options, notes and more for key POI.
  • Town List: provides cumulative distances between POI, and does the math so you don’t have to.
  • Mileage Chart and Elevation Gain Chart: are simple graphs showing cumulative mileage and elevation gain between POI.
  • Arizona Trail Maps: Explore our companion Ride with GPS maps to visualize the route, identify POIs, and download files for offline navigation.

Data Sheet - $25.00

Town List ONLY available as part of Small / Big Bundle

Mileage Chart and Elevation Gain Chart ONLY available as part of Big Bundle

Small Bundle – $40.00  *You save $10 when you bundle!

Big Bundle – $60.00  *You save $20 when you bundle!

BIKE / GEAR

Arizona Trail Race FAQ

Choosing the right bike and gear for the Arizona Trail Race is a critical decision, as the route’s rugged desert terrain, extreme temperature swings, and long, waterless sections place unique demands on equipment. Riders must consider durability, weight, carrying capacity, and efficiency when selecting their setup, as rocky singletrack, sand, and sharp vegetation can wreak havoc on gear. This section of the Arizona Trail Race FAQ answers a few of the most common questions to help you get started.

For more detailed insights and a wider range of gear options, check out the Project’s Arizona Trail Race Rider Survey, where past participants share their setups, gear choices, and firsthand experiences. Have your own AZTR experience to share? Take the survey and help future riders make informed decisions!

Q:  What type of bike is best?

A:  The most popular type of bike per the AZTR Rider Survey is a tie (Hard tail and full suspension). 

Q:  How much suspension?

A:  Most have 121-130 mm of front travel and 101-120 mm is the most popular amount of rear suspension.

Q:  Most popular wheel and tire size ?

A:  The most popular wheel size is 29, and the most popular tire size is 2.1- 2.4.

Q:  Most popular drivetrain set up?

A:  The most popular drivetrain set up is 1x up front (30th), and a 12 speed cassette.

Q:  Most popular pedal type?

A:  The most popular pedal type is Clipless.

If you want to see more detailed information on what others used, I suggest you look at The Project’s Arizona Trail Race Rider Survey.

CAMPING

Arizona Trail Race FAQ

Camping during the Arizona Trail Race isn’t just about finding a place to sleep—it’s about managing exposure, conserving energy, and staying prepared for unpredictable conditions. Riders face scorching daytime heat, freezing nights, and stretches of trail with few ideal campsites. Carrying enough water for overnight stops, protecting gear from the harsh desert environment, and choosing a shelter that balances weight with protection are all critical factors. This section of the Arizona Trail Race FAQ answers common questions about shelter options, water management, and strategies for getting the rest you need in the backcountry.

For even more insights and a deeper look at how riders approach camping, check out the Project’s Arizona Trail Race Rider Survey for firsthand responses from past participants.

Q:  What is the most popular shelter of choice?

A:  A bivy sac or tent are tied for he most popular shelter option.

Q:  How much water carrying capacity do most have?

A:  4-6 liters is the most common answer. More is better when the AZT is concerned. 6+ is more realistic to the conditions you’ll face.

Q:  Do most camp or use hotels?

A:  Where one sleeps at night depends on many factors. Weather, pace, timing, budget, and more. That said, over 63% of races say they camped most nights.

If you want to see more detailed information on what others used, I suggest you look at The Project’s Arizona Trail Race Rider Survey.

CLOTHING

Arizona Trail Race FAQ

Choosing the right clothing for the Arizona Trail Race is a critical part of preparation, as riders must be ready for scorching desert heat, frigid nights, and relentless sun exposure. The AZTR demands a layering system that balances sun protection, breathability, and insulation for the extreme temperature swings across different elevations. Managing sweat, avoiding dehydration, and preventing chafing are just as important as staying warm when the temperatures drop. Rather than attempt to cover every option, this section of the Arizona Trail Race FAQ directs you to the Project’s Arizona Trail Race Rider Survey for insights from past participants on clothing choices and layering strategies.

For additional tips, check out our resources on How to Stay Dry When Bikepacking and How to Stay Warm When Bikepacking to ensure you’re prepared for the extreme conditions you’ll encounter on the route.

ELECTRONICS

Arizona Trail Race FAQ

Electronics are a critical part of the Arizona Trail Race, especially when it comes to navigation and lighting. Many riders prefer to ride at night to avoid the extreme desert heat, making a reliable lighting setup and battery management essential. With limited access to power along the route, resupply stops with charging opportunities are few and far between. Riders must carefully plan how to keep their GPS, lights, and other devices running for the duration of the race.

This section of the Arizona Trail Race FAQ answers some of the most common questions, such as the best GPS options, how to keep your devices charged, and the most popular lighting systems.

For even more insights, explore the Project’s Arizona Trail Race Rider Survey or dive into our guide on Bikepacking Navigation to ensure you’re fully equipped for the journey.

Q:  What is the best GPS?

A: The most common option is the Garmin eTrex series or one of the Garmin Edge bike computers.

Q:  How does one keep their electronics charged?

A: The most common way is external batteries. On the AZTR, Dynamo hubs are not practical for charging external batteries (the average moving speed of most riders isn’t fast enough to efficiently charge devices or external batteries). That said some use dynamo hubs as their power source for their lights or to keep cycling computers charged.

Q:  What is the most popular lighting system?

A: Fenix brand lights are the most popular lighting system. K-Lite and  Exposure round out the top three.

For a full breakdown of what riders used, check out the Arizona Trail Race Rider Survey and see the data for yourself.

SAFETY

Arizona Trail Race FAQ

Safety is a major concern for anyone tackling the Arizona Trail Race, and this section of the Arizona Trail Race FAQ covers some of the most critical risks riders face. With scorching daytime temperatures, freezing nights, long waterless stretches, and exposure to remote desert terrain, staying safe requires careful planning and constant awareness. From dehydration and heat exhaustion to hypothermia, monsoon storms, and encounters with desert wildlife, understanding potential dangers and how to handle them is essential.

Ultimately, riders are responsible for their own safety, and good decision-making is critical throughout the journey. This includes being prepared with basic first aid knowledge, understanding your body’s limits, recognizing signs of injury or fatigue, and making sound choices in challenging situations. For more insights, explore our Most Common Bikepacking Injuries resource to better prepare yourself for the unexpected.

Q:  Do I need travel insurance?

A: Travel insurance is a great idea. If you get the right plan it will not only cover you but your gear and travel.

See our Travel Insurance post for more on the subject.

Q:  Do I need to carry a bike lock?

A: Most don’t as the areas the route travels through are pretty rural and crime is not much of an issue.

Q:  Do I need lights?

A: Yes. One should have both a headlight and tail light, as there will be times when you have to be on paved roads with traffic, and travel at night.

Q:  Do I need to worry about animals?

A: There is always a chance of animal encounters when spending so much time in the nature. Know things like snake and scorpion safety, proper food storage, which animals are along the route and how to conduct yourself safely.

Q:  Do I need to worry about lightning?

A: Yes, lightning is a possibility. This is due to the fact that most of the route is exposed and there isn’t much cover, making you the rider higher than most of the objects around you.

If you need a refresher on your lightning safety, you can checkout this article.

Q:  Do I need to be concerned about altitude sickness?

A: Compared to the CTR the AZTR isn’t that high, but with that said, those coming from sea level still might feel the effects during the higher points on the route.

If you want to know the signs of altitude sickness and how to prevent/treat it, you can checkout this article.

Q:  What other things should I be concerned about on the AZTR?

A: The remoteness and difficulty of the route should not be taken lightly. One should be aware of flash floods, heat stroke, dehydration, as well as a wide variety of temperatures and weather along the route.

Snow can fall any time in the high country so be prepared for all kinds of weather. Speaking of weather, it can change very fast so monitor it regularly. Hypothermia is a concern due to the two factors I just mentioned.

Arizona Trail Race Rider Survey

The Project conducts an ongoing rider survey to help new riders try to figure out what gear to use during the Arizona Trail Race. Undertaking a ride/adventure like the AZTR can be very intimidating and the planning can be overwhelming. It’s our hope this survey will help new riders with their planning and execution of their AZTR, as well as help ensure riders are more properly prepared for their adventure.

If you haven’t taken the AZTR Rider Survey yet and would like to you can at the links below.

***Please pay attention to the examples for the questions where you have to type in your answer. If answers are not entered EXACTLY like the example I have to go in and correct them and it also throws off the results. Thanks in advance!

Covers: bikes, suspension, tires & wheels, drivetrain, and Components.

Covers: navigation planning, camping, logistic/travel, clothes, and more.

Conclusion

Arizona Trail Race FAQ

The Arizona Trail Race FAQ is designed to provide you with the essential knowledge needed to take on this brutal and remote bikepacking race. From travel logistics and resupply strategies to gear selection and safety considerations, this guide covers key aspects of preparing for the AZTR. With relentless desert terrain, extreme temperature swings, and no outside support, proper planning is essential to success.

We know that every rider’s experience is unique, and there may be additional questions not covered in this FAQ. If you have a question or think there’s an important topic we’ve missed, we’d love to hear from you! Please use our Contact Page to reach out and share your feedback.

For even more in-depth resources, be sure to visit our Arizona Trail Race Resource Page. Whether you need insights on the route, resupply strategies, electronics, or clothing choices, we have the information to help you prepare. Start planning today and get ready to take on the Arizona desert!

More Helpful AZT Resources

Read these next.

Arizona Trail Planning Aids: Resupply, Mileage, and More

Checkout our full line of AZTR Planning Aids at our store. Only available in NOBO US standard units.

Arizona Trail: My Prove Triple Crown Bikepacking Gear

  • Ultimate Bikepacking and Hiking Resource

A detailed look at what I used on my AZT (ITT), what worked and what didn’t.

Arizona Trail Gear: What Worked Well and What’s Even Better

In depth look at what I would bring for gear and why, if I rode the AZT again.

Arizona Trail Rider Survey: Essential Gear Insights for New Riders

Curios to know what gear other riders used to get to the finish line? Checkout our Rider Surveys to find out what works or to take the survey yourself.

Ultimate Arizona Trail Guide: Route, Resources, and More

 

Arizona Trail Resource Cover Photo

Checkout our bikepacking resource page for more planning help.