This was my 5th time doing the Lost Dutchman 10k. I continue to be drawn in by the cool backdrop of the superstition mountains, the small town feel and the great organization of the race.

This year they held packet pickup in Tempe on Thursday only, then out in Apache Junction near the race start on Friday and Saturday. I ended up driving all the way out there, but it is a small, simple packet pickup process. On race morning I chose to park at the rodeo fairgrounds and take the short (less than 5 minute) shuttle to the start. It's easier than looking for parking near the park. And the signage leading to the parking is fantastic.

There is a full, half, 10k, 8k trail run and 2 mile race. Unique medals for all races. kudos to that!

The course has gentle rolling hills, which are honestly pretty perfect. Plenty of aid stations throughout. I did not notice many mile markers though. And no clocks.

The one area where this race has gone downhill is their post race food. It used to be amazing. There used to be homemade breakfast burritos afterwards, and chips and salsa. Now it's very generic. Half a bagel, fruit, yogurt and a bag of chips.