The Elder Creek Night Runs return to Anza, California on July 25th, drawing runners for a unique desert evening experience under the full moon. Located in the western Riverside County at Cahuilla Road near the reservation of the Cahuilla Band of Indians, this event offers various distances over challenging yet scenic terrain. Runners traverse single-track trails and wide dirt roads through manzanita trees and rock formations with stunning views of Cahuilla Mountain. On race morning, participants will gather around 6:30 p.m., as temperatures cool down after the midday heat but remain warm enough for evening activities in the desert landscape. The sunset at 7:58 p.m. marks the start of an illuminated run through the night. Aid stations are set up every loop to cater to runners' needs with water and snacks, ensuring participants can enjoy their route without worry. Since its inception, Elder Creek Night Runs has become a beloved tradition among local trail running communities, celebrating not just athletic achievement but also honoring the sacred land of the Cahuilla Band of Indians. With limited spots available for up to 200 runners, this event offers a rare opportunity to experience Southern California's unique desert environment during twilight hours. The course winds through trails and roads in a looped format that accommodates various distances from shorter races like the 9 Miler (14.5K) to longer endurance challenges such as the 30 K (20.9K). Each lap includes an aid station, where runners can refill on water or grab snacks before continuing their journey under starlit skies. Weather conditions in July typically see average temperatures around 24.8°C with a minimum of 17.6°C and maximum reaching up to 32.0°C by early evening when the race begins. With an expected UV index rating at very high levels, participants should prepare for warm but not overly humid nights (humidity averages 31.3%). No precipitation is forecasted during the event period.
Registration for Elder Creek Night Runs can be completed through https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=129302 with fees varying by distance as listed above. Deadlines are strict, so interested runners should register early to secure a spot in this limited-entry event. Bib pickup will take place at Cahuilla Road on July 24th from 5 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., where participants must show proof of registration. For newcomers or those requiring more information about the race, all runners should plan to start their journey at Cahuilla Road in Anza, California by sunset on July 25th. Age requirements for each distance vary; however, it is important that entrants adhere to these guidelines strictly. Ensuring proper footwear and hydration packs are key considerations given the desert terrain and evening temperature fluctuations. The Elder Creek Night Runs invites participants back to Anza, California on July 25th, highlighting an exceptional opportunity to run through a unique landscape under moonlight while respecting indigenous heritage. This event celebrates both athletic challenge and cultural appreciation in one unforgettable experience.
Races Offered
50 K
Jul 25, 2026
straighten
Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
17:00
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$160.00
9 Hour
Jul 25, 2026
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Distance —
9 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
17:00
sell
$165.00
TEAM 9 Hour Relay
Jul 25, 2026
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Distance —
9 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
17:00
sell
$350.00
30 K
Jul 25, 2026
straighten
Distance —
30K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
18:30
sell
$140.00
6 Hour
Jul 25, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
18:30
sell
$150.00
13 Miler
Jul 25, 2026
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Distance —
20.9K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
19:30
sell
$120.00
9 Miler
Jul 25, 2026
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Distance —
14.5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
19:30
sell
$110.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for July in Anza.
thermostatTemperature
17.6° / 32.0°
wb_sunnyFeels like
15.5° / 27.7°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
13h 44m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
—
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
9.5 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Very High (8.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
31.3%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
05:48
nightlight
Sunset
19:55
About Anza
Learn more about the host city, Anza.
Anza is a census-designated place in Riverside County, California, in the Anza Valley, a semi-arid region at a mean elevation of 3,921 feet (1,195 m) above sea level. It is located 13 miles (21 km) south of Idyllwild, 32 miles (51 km) east-northeast of Temecula, 40 miles (64 km) southwest of Palm Springs, and 90 miles (140 km) northeast of San Diego, being traversed by State Route 371. Anza is on the Pacific Crest Trail and the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. The population was 3,075 at the 2020 census.
