The Sonoran Ultra-Endurance Ride (SAUER) 2027

Back for it’s third year, the Sonoran Ultra Endurance Ride (SAUER) will take riders on either a 315 or 140-mile chunky gravel loop, starting and ending in beautiful Tucson, Arizona. The Sonoran Desert is considered the most biologically diverse desert in the world, and both routes aim to showcase that fact – from thick cactus stands to rolling grasslands, and cool pinyon/juniper forests to shady cottonwood canyons, all with sweeping Sky Island views.

While some may consider the distance and elevation on the shorter side, the road conditions and temperamental spring weather will certainly keep you on your toes. We’ve had rain, snow, and all-out sunny days in the 80s for the last two editions, so come prepared for it all. Early March is prime desert riding. Brittlebush and ocotillo should be in bloom, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 70s Fahrenheit (5-20 Celsius).

This is a free event and is modeled on the principles of self-supported racing:
-Complete every mile of the route under your own power.
-Be completely self-supported (ie: no support crews, gear sharing, or planned outside help).
-Leave no trace.

Registration will happen in two waves:
-Priority registration opens December 4, 2026 for anyone who identifies as a person of color, a woman, non-binary, has a physical disability, or scratched from either of the first two editions.
-Wave two will open December 11, 2026 for anyone not included in the above.

Feel free to reach out with any questions via email or Instagram @SAUER.tucson.