The TMC Saguaro National Park Labor Day 8-Miler/5K takes place in Saguaro National Park East near Tucson, Arizona, on September 7, 2026. Runners and walkers can choose between a 5K or an 8-mile distance. The race starts early at 5:30 AM, which helps athletes beat the desert heat. Entry fees range from $40 to $50. Racing within the park offers competitors a chance to experience the Sonoran Desert landscape while supporting local running events. This Labor Day weekend race provides an accessible option for endurance athletes of various abilities, with the early start time a practical consideration for Arizona's September temperatures.
From the Race Organizer
Prize money for course records, age group and overall awards, a souvenir shirt and post-race fun for all. Your race entry provides a day pass into Saguaro National Park. Produced by the Southern Arizona Roadrunners, whose original founders created the race back in 1971. The rolling paved course promises a challenge, but the breathtaking views of saguaro, prickly pears, ocotillos, and possibly even a rattlesnake or two make it worth it! The 8-Mile is a clockwise loop, with challenging rolling hills and beautiful views of the Rincon Mountains, the Catalina Mountains, and the entire Tucson basin. The 5k is a less-challenging out-and-back covering the last portion of the 8-mile race. A note on 2026 pricing: Your race entry includes an entrance pass to the Saguaro National Park. You can save $5 on your registration by submitting your National Park Service number at the appropriate spot in the registration process. Please be sure to enter your NPS number with a mix of letters and numerals, not the SKU number on the card. You can purchase an NPS annual pass online here. Run more, pay less! SAR members receive a discount that covers RunSignup fees at all SAR-owned races. Not a member? Join SAR: https://runsignup.com/MemberOrg/SouthernArizonaRoadrunners SAGUARO BENEFICIARIES The National Park Service: The National Park Service has been gracious about allowing us access to the beautiful park. The Park Service asks that all participants pay the standard entry fee to the park. This amount will go directly to the National Parks Service. If you buy an annual pass to the national parks (or are under 16 years of age), this fee will be waived if you provide your permit number on your hard-copy entry form or your online registration. Friends of Saguaro: This year's event will donate funds to the Friends of Saguaro. Friends of Saguaro National Park: Our mission is to help the public discover Saguaro, protect Saguaro, and support Saguaro. Southern Arizona Roadrunners: This event raises operating funds for SAR and income for the Children's Fitness Fund, an award-based program supporting youth fitness in and around Tucson.
Hotels Near This Race
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TMC Saguaro National Park Labor Day 8-Miler/5k 2026 — Tucson, AZ
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for September 7.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Tucson, AZ.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is TMC Saguaro National Park Labor Day 8-Miler/5k 2026 — Tucson, AZ?
TMC Saguaro National Park Labor Day 8-Miler/5k 2026 — Tucson, AZ takes place on September 7, 2026. The race is held in Tucson, Arizona.
Where is TMC Saguaro National Park Labor Day 8-Miler/5k 2026 — Tucson, AZ held?
TMC Saguaro National Park Labor Day 8-Miler/5k 2026 — Tucson, AZ is held at Saguaro National Park East in Tucson, Arizona.
Where can I find hotels near TMC Saguaro National Park Labor Day 8-Miler/5k 2026 — Tucson, AZ?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Tucson. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
