When I saw the Metro SAR 5K, I was really excited. As someone who is outdoors a lot, I know the importance of search and rescue operations. I volunteered with Red Rock SAR for a while, and these organizations need all the help they can get.
Then I saw that it was going to be held at Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, and I was thrilled. I volunteered as a docent at the park in 2024, and it really is a hidden gem for outdoor recreation in Las Vegas.
Metro SAR 5K Routing
I was particularly interested in how the race would set up the route. The park has two main trails. Each of them is less than 3 miles, so they’d have to do some kind of connection. I assumed they’d be mostly on the trails, so I wore trail running shoes.
I should have looked at the map better! The race was 50/50 trail. We started out at the Super Summer Theater stage and routed on asphalt towards the park entrance. With an initial downhill stretch, I was concerned about incline and decline throughout.
After over a mile, we got into some trail. We ran by the historic cabins and blacksmith shop that show the pioneer spirit of the park, and then into a very special highlight.
Lake Harriet has been closed to the public for a few years. The lake is home to the endangered Pahrump Poolfish. Unfortunately, the public used the lake to dump goldfish and other unwanted aquatic pets, which harmed the poolfish population and prompted the closure. So it’s a real treat to run along the lake!
The final leg was up to the ranch house, then into the Ash Grove. This got into some shade, giving us some relief from the sun. So we had a downhill and a final uphill before shooting back into the group area.
Swag and After-Party
Swag included a cotton t-shirt, a medal, and a drawstring bag. The after-event had fun music and the standard fruit and rehydration options. Chilling on the lawn in front of the stage was relaxing and cool. The scenery there is the draw, so no major pop-up photo ops, and no food trucks. But the cause is a great one. As a bonus, admission to the park was free, as the event started before the park officially opened. If you’ve ever needed an excuse to go to Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, this is a good one.
