Oz Endurance Monster Run, El Dorado

Many people are stalked by monsters in their nightmares, but participants in the Oz Endurance Monster Run are stalked by them during their waking life. They start their race on-road before meandering into a network of park trails, pursued by ghouls, monsters, and the most terrifying prospect of all: extroverted squirrels. The hordes attempt to “kill” runners by dousing them in colored water gun spray. At the race’s close, officials dole out awards to both “The Living” and “The Dead,” and tired racers can kick back in the park’s amphitheater for snacks and a horror- movie screening. A portion of the proceeds benefits local high-school and collegiate theater programs.