The Hoover Dam Marathon

18 miles away from Las Vegas, this race provides stunning views, including over Lake Mead, which is the USA's largest man-made lake. Running through the National Recreation Area, you'll take in some historic sites along the way.

Starting at Boulder Beach on Lake Mead, you start gradually uphill before turning onto the paved River Mountains Loop Trail. You then undulate through the stunning Mojave Desert, and at mile 3 you join the historic Railroad Tunnel Trail. On the dirt track, you'll pass through 3 of the 6 tunnels used in the 1930s during the building of the Hoover Dam. The ridge looks down over the Lake and marina. After passing the power plants, you witness the race's highlight, as 6 switch-backs lead you down to the upper level parking garage at Hoover dam. You will have incredible views over the Hoover Dam and Bypass Bridge. You then retrace your steps all the way back, and then at Boulder Beach there is an extra 0.6-mile out-and-back section before finishing.