Trail running course through singletrack trails in California, USA
Mendocino Running Festival

Mendocino Running Festival — 10K

10K·82 ft gain·Mendocino, California
foresttechnicaltrailcoastal10kloop

AI-generated image

Distance10K
Gain82 ft
DateSep 12, 2026
Difficulty2/5

About This Race

The 10K serves as the most approachable entry point while still delivering authentic trail running challenges through the course's 876 feet of elevation gain. This distance allows runners to experience the festival's loop-based format and rolling terrain without the extended time commitment of longer options. The shorter distance makes it ideal for trail running newcomers or those using the event as a training run within a larger racing schedule.

The course consists of a 6-mile loop starting from the Big River valley and climbing to the valley's edge with 875 feet of elevation gain per loop. The route is primarily singletrack trail, offering technical terrain that demands attention and respect. Two well-positioned aid stations provide comprehensive support throughout each loop.

Runners in the timed events complete as many loops as possible within their time limit, while distance event participants complete predetermined loop counts. The loop format allows runners to gauge their progress and adjust strategy, while the sustained climbing on each circuit creates a cumulative challenge that tests both physical and mental endurance.

Elevation Profile

Elevation profile estimated from terrain data. Actual course may differ.

The course gains 82 ft over 6 miles, with the steepest section between mile 0–mile 0.

Location

Practical Info

Weather

September in Mendocino typically brings mild coastal conditions with morning fog possible and temperatures ranging from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit.

Nearest Airport

SFO - San Francisco International Airport

Accommodation

The Mendocino area offers coastal lodging options from camping to bed and breakfasts, though early booking is recommended due to the scenic location's popularity.

Best For

Trail runners seeking loop-format challengesFirst-time ultra runners (6-hour option)Experienced runners testing endurance limits

Notable Features

The festival's unique multi-format structure allows runners to choose between traditional distances and time-based challenges on the same challenging loop course. The emphasis on runner support with well-stocked aid stations and the scenic Mendocino County location create an experience that balances competitive challenge with community celebration.

Other Distances at This Event

Half Marathon

876 ft gain

The course consists of a 6-mile loop starting from the Big River valley and climbing to the valley's edge with 875 feet of elevation gain per loop. The route is primarily singletrack trail, offering technical terrain that demands attention and respect. Two well-positioned aid stations provide comprehensive support throughout each loop. Runners in the timed events complete as many loops as possible within their time limit, while distance event participants complete predetermined loop counts. The loop format allows runners to gauge their progress and adjust strategy, while the sustained climbing on each circuit creates a cumulative challenge that tests both physical and mental endurance.

12 Hour

272 ft gain

The course consists of a 6-mile loop starting from the Big River valley and climbing to the valley's edge with 875 feet of elevation gain per loop. The route is primarily singletrack trail, offering technical terrain that demands attention and respect. Two well-positioned aid stations provide comprehensive support throughout each loop. Runners in the timed events complete as many loops as possible within their time limit, while distance event participants complete predetermined loop counts. The loop format allows runners to gauge their progress and adjust strategy, while the sustained climbing on each circuit creates a cumulative challenge that tests both physical and mental endurance.

6 Hour

282 ft gain

The course consists of a 6-mile loop starting from the Big River valley and climbing to the valley's edge with 875 feet of elevation gain per loop. The route is primarily singletrack trail, offering technical terrain that demands attention and respect. Two well-positioned aid stations provide comprehensive support throughout each loop. Runners in the timed events complete as many loops as possible within their time limit, while distance event participants complete predetermined loop counts. The loop format allows runners to gauge their progress and adjust strategy, while the sustained climbing on each circuit creates a cumulative challenge that tests both physical and mental endurance.