Lake Pleasant is practically in my backyard so I couldn't pass this race up. In April it's already hot out and decided to do the 13k distance which Aravaipa calls Dam Tough. It sure was darn tough! The sun was fully out and there was a nice breze. The Arizona desert is perfect this time of year for trail running.

Pros:
• Aravaipa puts on a spectacular race. They have the most food-filled aid stations I have ever seen. And they even offer quesadillas at the finish line!
• Course scenery was beautiful. There were lake views, desert views and even a secret oasis view.
• Exclusiveness to the Wadell Dam. This is the only time all year that people can cross it and running across was super cool.
• All the food. The aid stations, start line and finish line food didn't disappoint. I forgot to eat breakfast (I know, I know) and the volunteers had bananas, oranges and cookies out for pre-run fueling.
• Finishers award. It was refreshing to receive a bio-degradable pot and seeds as my finishers medal. It was an unexpected surprize that I loved.
• Parking was abundant and so were the potties. :)
• Tons of options. 2 miles? 25 miles? The options are there! I love that I could run a longer distance while my family does the 2 miles. I'm considering this next year.
• No shirt option. This was a nice touch. I'm on a tight race budget and I don't really need a new shirt. The no shirt option saved me $10. Thank you for that.

Cons:
• I wish there was a photographer at the oasis point. I noticed last year there was and I was looking forward to one. I liked seeing photos of people crossing the bridge over the Agua Fria River. They did have two people taking photos on course, so that made up for it. I love race photos, free or not.

I highly recommend you sign up for this race next year.