Dragon’s Tail Stair Climb Challenge Returns to St. George with 5K, 1K, Sprint, and Endurance Races on the Tech Ridge Staircase This January

The highly anticipated Dragon’s Tail Stair Climb Challenge is set to return to St. George this January, offering a series of grueling races on the renowned Tech Ridge Staircase.

 

Participants can choose from a variety of race formats, including a 5K Run/Walk, a 1K Run/Walk, the Sprint Challenge, and the Endurance Challenge.

 

Each event is designed to test the limits of speed, endurance, and determination.

 

The 5K and 1K Run/Walks will commence at 7:30 AM.

 

The 5K course begins at the top of the Tech Ridge stairs, guiding runners along the rim trail, descending the steep Jerry Rice Trail, ascending Cloud Drive, returning down Jerry Rice, and culminating with the demanding 333-step climb up the Dragon’s Tail staircase.

 

The 1K course, approximately 0.8 miles, starts at the top of the stairs, traverses the rim to the Temple Quarry parking lot, follows the bike path to the base of the staircase, and finishes with a climb to the top.

 

The Sprint Challenge is scheduled to begin at 9:00 AM and will be conducted in heats.

 

The participant with the fastest overall time will earn bragging rights and a special prize.

 

At 10:00 AM, the Endurance Challenge will push competitors to their limits.

 

Starting with five laps at 12 minutes per lap, the time allowance decreases by one minute every five laps.

 

Racers will descend and ascend the staircase for each lap, waiting for the next start time before continuing.

 

Those who complete all 24 laps will race from the bottom to the top, with the fastest male and female crowned Dragon King and Dragon Queen.

 

A special Dragon’s Tail Slayer Challenge is available for participants who complete all three race categories, offering discounted registration and an exclusive award.

 

Packet pickup will take place on January 17 at 7:00 AM at the top of the Dragon’s Tail staircase.

 

All finishers of the first lap will receive a finisher medal, with milestone charms awarded along the way.

 

Strollers are not permitted during the event.

 

For more details, registration, and volunteer opportunities, please visit the City of St. George events page.

 

The Tech Ridge Staircase, also known as the Dragon Tail Steps, has become a popular public exercise site since its completion in 2024.

 

Constructed to cover an existing utility scar on the west side of the mesa near the old airport site, the staircase features 333 steps, climbing 171 feet in elevation over approximately 630 feet in length.

 

It has attracted fitness enthusiasts from across the nation, offering a challenging workout with stunning views of St. George.

 

In addition to the staircase, Tech Ridge has been a hub of development and innovation.

 

In October 2024, the area hosted the grand opening of its highly anticipated Container Park, a vibrant space designed to foster collaboration among multiple companies.

 

Among the businesses settling into this unique environment are Zonos, a global leader in cross-border technology solutions, and Busybusy by Align Technologies, a provider of time tracking and workforce management tools.

 

Furthermore, the St. George City Council approved a 199-unit apartment complex at Tech Ridge in August 2025.

 

Covering 4.9 acres between Donlee Drive and Tech Ridge Drive, the complex is planned to feature nearly 400 parking spaces, split between an outdoor lot and a five-level parking garage.

 

This development aligns with the goal of constructing housing within the tech park for the people who will come to work there.

 

As Tech Ridge continues to evolve, the Dragon’s Tail Stair Climb Challenge stands as a testament to the community's commitment to fitness, innovation, and growth.

 

Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a casual participant, this event offers a unique opportunity to challenge yourself and be part of St. George's vibrant community.