Vertigo Night Runs

The Vertigo Night Runs will take place in Waddell, Arizona on August 8th, 2026, inviting runners to experience the trails of White Tank Mountain Regional Park under starlight. This event is part of a series that has been running for five years and offers various distances catering to different levels of trail-running enthusiasts. Participants can choose from shorter sprint races like the 6K or tackle more challenging routes such as the 10K.
On race morning, runners will gather at White Tank Mountain Regional Park in Waddell, Arizona, where they'll be greeted by a dry and hard-packed trail surface typical for this time of year. The park's landscape is characterized by rugged terrain with rocky outcroppings and sweeping desert vistas, making it an ideal setting for nighttime running as the temperature drops from day to night. Local lore has it that many runners see their personal bests on these trails under moonlight due to cooler temperatures.
The Vertigo Night Runs are part of a larger tradition in Arizona's trail-running community through its place within the Insomniac Night Trail Run Series, which includes events across various regions of the state. Each race supports local causes and offers unique challenges that attract seasoned runners looking for new adventures as well as first-time night trail runners eager to experience this special kind of run under the stars.
The courses traverse White Tank Mountain Regional Park's rugged trails, offering a mix of climbs and descents along hard-packed surfaces typical in Arizona’s desert environment. The start line is at the park entrance where participants will receive their race numbers before heading out onto well-marked but challenging routes that wind through canyons and up hillsides. Aid stations are strategically placed to provide water and energy gels for runners pushing harder distances.
Typically, temperatures on August 8th in Waddell range from around 29°C at dawn to a high of about 41°C during the day before dropping significantly by nightfall when racing begins. Average wind speeds hover around 7-8 km/h while humidity remains relatively low at only 27%. With minimal precipitation expected and UV index levels considered high, runners should come prepared with ample hydration and sun protection.

The race offers a challenging 52K distance for experienced night trail runners along with two 31K courses designed to test endurance. Additionally, there are several shorter options including the popular 6K course ideal for those new to nighttime running and the slightly longer but still accessible 10K route.
For registration details and additional information on distances offered at the Vertigo Night Runs in Waddell, Arizona, visit https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=131006. Race entries are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to future events or other runners. The early bird pricing for various race categories ends June 8th.
Bib pickup will occur on the morning of August 7th from 9am until noon at White Tank Mountain Regional Park’s visitor center in Waddell, Arizona where participants can collect their race packets and familiarize themselves with course maps provided by organizers. Participants must bring photo ID to verify registration details.
The start line for all races is located right outside the entrance of White Tank Mountain Regional Park. Age requirements vary depending on distance but generally allow runners aged 16 or older without parental consent, while younger participants need permission from a guardian. Newcomers should ensure they have proper lighting and reflective gear along with appropriate footwear suitable for rocky trails.
The Vertigo Night Runs in Waddell, Arizona, scheduled for August 8th, 2026, offers runners the unique experience of racing through White Tank Mountain Regional Park under starlit skies during one of Arizona's most scenic trail-running events.