Running with The Devil Marathon 2025

• Scenic, challenging course in Spring Mountains with rolling terrain starting at 4,500 feet.
• Prepare for extreme heat; temperatures often exceed 100°F.
• Offers distances from 5K to 100K, catering to various skill levels.
• Staggered start times; multiple aid stations with water and energy drinks.
• Parking at start/finish line; spectators welcome with their own supplies.

The Running with The Devil Marathon is a unique opportunity for runners to experience the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert while tackling a challenging yet rewarding course. Situated just outside Las Vegas, this marathon takes athletes along the paved Lovell Canyon Road, a route known for its rolling, gradually uphill terrain that extends up to 11 miles. Participants in the marathon will make two turnaround points along the road before heading back to the finish line, effectively making use of the beautiful high desert environment.

What sets this marathon apart is its distinctive setting in the high desert of the Mojave, offering temperatures about 10 degrees cooler than those in the bustling Las Vegas Valley. Runners will weave through a landscape dotted with Joshua Trees, Pinion-Juniper, Mountain Rose, and Sagebrush, culminating in the relatively lush Toiyabe National Forest.

This event isn't just a marathon—it's a celebration of endurance sports and offers various race distances to cater to different levels of athleticism, including a 5K, 10K, half marathon, marathon, and the grueling 50K. Participants can opt to run both the morning and noon 10K or 5K, providing a unique back-to-back racing experience.

Awards add an element of incentive, with recognition going to top finishers in various categories. With its logistical convenience being just a 30-minute drive from the iconic Las Vegas Strip, combined with on-site packet pickup, Running with The Devil Marathon delivers both a race and an adventure, promising a memorable day of running amidst natural splendor with the vibrant backdrop of Las Vegas close by.

Expect daytime highs between 95-100°F (35-37.8°C) and overnight lows around 75°F (23.9°C) during the Running with The Devil Marathon in late June. With minimal precipitation and generally low humidity, the race benefits from slightly cooler temperatures due to its 4500-foot elevation in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area. Prepare for extreme heat and take advantage of on-course cooling provisions.

The Running with the Devil Marathon in Lovell Canyon offers runners a thrilling experience through the rugged beauty of the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area near Las Vegas. Starting at an elevation of approximately 4,500 feet, the course winds through high desert landscapes dotted with Joshua Trees, Pinion-Juniper, and Sagebrush. The route features rolling hills and gradual inclines along the paved Lovell Canyon Road, challenging runners with its relentless terrain.

This out-and-back course stretches 11 miles before turning around, with an additional 2.1-mile segment, allowing participants to savor the stunning high desert vistas twice. While there are no man-made landmarks, the natural scenery provides a captivating backdrop, with views of a lush section of the Toiyabe National Forest, unexpected in the Las Vegas area.

Runners face not only the demanding elevation changes, likened to an "EKG of a heart attack patient," but also the potential for extreme heat, making this marathon a true test of endurance and resilience. This race promises a memorable journey through one of Nevada's most scenic and challenging landscapes.

Visiting Las Vegas for the Running with the Devil Marathon offers more than just an athletic challenge; it’s an opportunity to explore a vibrant city brimming with unique attractions and rich cultural experiences. Beyond the race itself, Las Vegas presents a myriad of sights and sounds to enhance your stay.

Start your exploration with the iconic Fremont Street Experience. This bustling pedestrian mall is famous for its nightly LED canopy light shows and live music. For an adrenaline rush, try the Slotzilla zipline ride, which offers a unique aerial view of the area. Venture into Downtown Las Vegas to experience the vintage charm of casinos like The D and the Golden Gate Hotel & Casino, the city’s oldest. History buffs shouldn’t miss the Neon Museum, which showcases over 250 historical neon signs, offering a glimpse into Las Vegas’ colorful past.

Culturally, the Las Vegas Arts District is a must-visit, especially during the First Friday festival, where galleries, street artists, and food trucks create a lively atmosphere. For art enthusiasts, the Park West Fine Art Museum & Gallery at Caesars Palace features original works by masters like Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso. Whether you’re a history aficionado or an art lover, Las Vegas offers enriching experiences that complement the excitement of marathon weekend.