The Flat Top Mesa Endurance Run in Mesquite, Nevada, is a thrilling and challenging trail running event offering four race distances: 50 Miler, 100 Miler, 50K, and 100K. Each distance utilizes a scenic 10-mile counter-clockwise loop through the stunning desert landscape, with a mix of steep climbs, thrilling descents, and breathtaking vistas. Tracked via Garmin Connect, the loop starts and ends at the parking lot at the bottom, with well-placed aid stations to keep runners fueled and hydrated. The 50K and 100K races include an additional half-mile out-and-back on a nearby bike path.
Race Distances
- 50 Miler: Completes the 10-mile loop 5 times, totaling approximately 50 miles.
- 100 Miler: Completes the 10-mile loop 10 times, totaling approximately 100 miles.
- 50K: Completes the 10-mile loop 3 times, plus a 0.5-mile out-and-back on the nearby bike path, totaling approximately 31.1 miles (50 kilometers).
- 100K: Completes the 50K course (3 loops plus the 0.5-mile out-and-back) twice, totaling approximately 62.2 miles (100 kilometers).
Course Overview (10-Mile Loop)
- Distance: Approximately 10 miles per loop
- Start/Finish: The loop begins and ends at the parking lot at the bottom (36.80445, -114.13872), with a water station available nearby at the "Loop Start" marker.
- Elevation Profile: The loop features a significant elevation range, starting at approximately 1903 feet (580.15 meters) and peaking at around 2333 feet (710.94 meters). Expect a steep initial climb, rolling hills, and a steep final descent, with a net elevation change of approximately 430 feet per loop.
- Terrain: Predominantly desert trails with a mix of packed dirt, rocky sections, and open vistas, typical of the Mesquite landscape.
- Direction: The course runs counter-clockwise, providing a unique flow through the desert terrain.
- Course profile in Garmin Connect: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/373822386
Key Features (10-Mile Loop)
- Starting Point and Steep First Mile Climb (Mile 0–1): Each loop begins at the parking lot at the bottom, at an elevation of approximately 1903 feet (580.15 meters). A nearby water station at the "Loop Start" ensures runners are hydrated before the challenge begins. The first mile is a demanding ascent, climbing steeply from 1903 feet to approximately 2290 feet (698 meters) by the end of the mile. This rugged, rocky trail requires focus and strong pacing, but rewards runners with increasingly expansive views of the Mesquite desert and surrounding mountains as they gain elevation.
- Climbing and Rolling Section (Miles 1–5): After the steep first mile, the course continues to climb more gradually, reaching a peak of approximately 2333 feet (710.94 meters) around the 3-mile mark. This section features a mix of steady inclines and short, rolling hills, offering brief moments to catch your breath while enjoying panoramic desert vistas as you progress counter-clockwise.
- Aid Station 2 (Mile ~5): Positioned at approximately the halfway point of each loop, Aid Station 2 offers critical hydration and support. Located around 2133–2333 feet (650–710 meters), this station is a perfect spot to refuel and rehydrate before tackling the second half of the loop.
- Mid-Course Plateau (Miles 5–9): Following the aid station, the course maintains a relatively stable elevation, fluctuating between approximately 2133–2333 feet (650–710 meters). Runners can settle into a steady rhythm across these rolling hills and flatter sections, surrounded by the rugged beauty of Mesquite’s desert landscape, as the counter-clockwise path winds through scenic trails.
- Steep Final Descent and Loop Closure (Miles 9–10): The last mile of each loop is a thrilling, steep downhill plunge, dropping from around 2333 feet back to the starting elevation of approximately 1903 feet (580.03 meters) at the parking lot. This fast descent on a rocky, technical trail demands careful footing and control, but it’s an exhilarating way to close each loop. The final stretch brings you back to the parking lot, where you’ll either cross the finish line or prepare for the next loop, surrounded by the stark beauty of the Nevada desert.
Additional Course Details for 50K and 100K
For the 50K and 100K races, runners will complete the 10-mile loop 3 times (for 50K) or 6 times (for 100K, as it’s two 50K courses). After the third loop (for 50K) or sixth loop (for 100K), runners will complete a 0.5-mile out-and-back segment on a nearby bike path to achieve the precise 50K or 100K distance. This bike path segment is relatively flat, offering a smooth, paved surface for a brief respite from the rugged trails before finishing at the parking lot.
Runner Tips
- First Mile Climb: The steep ascent in the first mile of each loop is intense, gaining nearly 400 feet. Start conservatively, use short strides, and maintain a steady effort to avoid burning out early, especially for multi-loop races (50 Miler, 100 Miler, 100K). Trekking poles may help for those less experienced with steep climbs.
- Last Mile Descent: The steep downhill in the final mile of each loop can be hard on the legs, so engage your core and keep your knees soft to absorb impact. Watch for loose rocks and uneven terrain to stay safe. Practice downhill running techniques to build confidence, particularly for the 100 Miler with 10 descents.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Utilize the water station near the parking lot and Aid Station 2 at the halfway mark of each loop to stay hydrated, especially in the arid Mesquite environment. Carry additional water or electrolytes for the sections between aid stations. For longer distances, plan nutrition carefully to sustain energy across multiple loops.
- Bike Path (50K and 100K): The 0.5-mile out-and-back on the bike path is a short, flat segment. Use it to recover slightly and prepare mentally for the finish (50K) or the second set of loops (100K).
- Gear: Trail running shoes with excellent grip are essential for the rocky climb and technical descent. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) is critical due to the exposed desert setting. For 100 Miler and 100K runners, consider spare shoes or socks for comfort over long distances.
- Scenery: Take moments during the first mile’s climb to glance back at the expanding views of the desert and mountains. The counter-clockwise route offers unique perspectives, with the final descent of each loop providing a chance to appreciate the vast landscape as you speed toward the finish or the next loop.
Why Run the Flat Top Mesa Endurance Run?
Whether you’re tackling the 50K, 50 Miler, 100K, or the grueling 100 Miler, this counter-clockwise loop course offers a test of endurance with a heart-pumping initial climb, a thrilling final descent, and stunning desert scenery. The challenging elevation profile, strategically placed aid stations, and the unique desert environment make the Flat Top Mesa Endurance Run a must-run for trail enthusiasts visiting Mesquite, NV.
Enjoy the run, and conquer the climbs, descents, and vast beauty of the Nevada desert!
