El Vaquero Loco

The El Vaquero Loco features an out and back on single/double track on National Forest. Includes high-mountain lakes, steep, long climbs, amazing views of the Salt River and Wyoming mountain ranges. Five aid stations for the 50k including manned aid (only place for drop bags). Others will have limited supplies due to access. Two aid stations for 25k running to 50k start. Nearly 9000 ft. of climb/descent for the 50k, 4500 for the 25k. This is a difficult wilderness race.

The 50k race will start at the northwest corner of Cottonwood reservoir at 6 a.m. sharp. After working your way north through the campground you will start a rolling, steep climb to the ridge called “balls.” Take a minute and check out the view – its one of the best in the world. A mile later you will be at the first aid station. The next 3 miles will roll you through the top of the drainage. When you come to the trail junction make sure you go left (West). This trail will take you up to the Corral Creek Lakes. The aid station here is water only. Two abrupt climbs later you will be at the head of Swift Creek Canyon. The trail is technical but fast if you have the inclination. Be careful though, save some pep for the return trip. When you hit the next (Cowboy) aid station you will be about 5 miles from the turn around. You will continue to run northward until you reach the “elbow” that takes you west. Heads up here, there may be 25k runners coming your direction. When you pass the intermittent spring you have less than ½ of a mile to the turn around.

Stay on the high trail and soak in the views until you get to the turnaround aid station. Now all you have to do is retrace your steps to the start. When leaving the aid station stay on the low trail to the spring until you take a sharp left back up to the main trail about ¼ of a mile from the turnaround aid station. The climb back to the lakes is long. Stay hydrated and keep at it. There are a few false summits but you will get there. Eventually. Take care of yourself and before you know it you’ll be climbing back up “BALLS” again. It’s tough getting to the top but you’re biggest challenge waits for your weary-legged descent back to the reservoir. Hammer it home!