The Daydreamer

The Daydreamer

Nestled in the high desert of Patagonia, Arizona, The Daydreamer blends the magic of a big trail run with the intimacy of a small-town festival. Designed for runners who want more than just mileage, this race offers wide-open skies, rugged mountain views, and a weekend packed with music, community, and connection. Whether you’re toeing the line for your first ultra or just want to cruise a fast 10K in a beautiful place, The Daydreamer is here to welcome you with chill vibes and heartfelt hospitality.

Course Options

All distances begin and end in the town of Patagonia, sending runners into the hills on a mix of rugged singletrack, remote fire roads, and scenic stretches of the iconic Arizona Trail.

• 50K (34.8 miles | 3,307 ft gain): View the route. The first 14 miles take you deep into the backcountry, with a 4-hour and 15-minute cut-off to reach Aid Station 2 at mile 14. Runners who don’t make the cutoff are rerouted to finish via the 30K course. After this aid, the course delivers long, quiet stretches and sparse support between miles 17 and 27, demanding self-reliance and solid hydration planning. Expect a satisfying challenge followed by an energetic welcome back in town.
• 30K (19.7 miles | 3,307 ft gain): View the route. Following the same opening miles as the 50K, the 30K offers the same early exposure to the Arizona Trail with less time commitment. You’ll hit a long 10-mile stretch without aid between mile 3 and 13, so pack your water wisely. After the final aid station at mile 17, it’s a scenic cruise back to the finish. This distance strikes a perfect balance between challenge and enjoyment.
• 10K (6.1 miles | 145 ft gain): View the route. Short, fast, and fun, the 10K course offers gentle climbing and smooth cruising—a rare fast course in the trail world. It’s ideal for road runners dipping into trails or for those who want a low-stakes way to enjoy the weekend energy.

Aid Stations & Support

Hydration is critical on both the 50K and 30K courses. Runners are strongly encouraged to wear hydration vests or carry bottles, especially for the long aid gaps. Aid stations are well-stocked with water, Skratch electrolytes, salty snacks, cookies, chips, and Skratch chews.

• 50K: 5 total aid stations (2 full, 3 partial). Key long gaps: Miles 3–13 (10 miles), 17–27 (10 miles).
• 30K: 3 total aid stations (1 full, 2 partial).
• 10K: 1 full aid station.

Medical support will be available on-site, and post-race recovery includes massage stations and food trucks to help you wind down and celebrate your finish.

Daydreamer Vibe

Expect a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with all the thoughtful touches: live music, handmade mugs, and a community dinner the night before the race at The Patagonia Lumber Company (included in registration). The post-race celebration continues with music, dancing, and dinner from local food trucks on Saturday night. The Daydreamer emphasizes minimal waste —runners are encouraged to bring their own reusable plates and utensils, with wash stations provided throughout the venue. Light course markings will be in place, but staying alert and tuned in is part of the experience. Spectators and support crews are not permitted on course, allowing runners to fully immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of the Arizona landscape.

Practical details

• Price: Includes Friday night dinner, handmade Daydreamer mug, aid station support, and weekend entertainment
• Lodging: Discounted rooms at The Gravel House Hotel; also check Stage Stop Inn, local Airbnbs, and nearby camping options
• Camping: Free dispersed camping 3 miles outside town or reservable spots at Terrasoul Campground
• Mandatory gear: Hydration system required for 30K and 50K due to long aid gaps
• Travel tips: Closest major airport is Tucson International (approx. 1.5-hour drive); limited cell service in town