About This Race
The Nine Trails 35 Mile Endurance Run in Santa Barbara's front country presents one of California's most deceptively challenging ultra distances. With over 10,000 feet of elevation gain packed into 35 miles, this point-to-point course from Jesusita Trailhead to Romero Canyon and back runs significantly harder than its distance suggests. Experienced runners often compare it to a tough 50-miler due to the relentless climbing, technical rocky sections, and long unsupported stretches through the Santa Barbara Mountains. The course traverses most of the Santa Barbara front country trail system, taking runners through diverse terrain from chaparral-covered slopes to creek crossings and the notorious "Edison Catwalk" section locals call "the wall." The combination of steep, rocky, and often inaccessible trails demands both technical skill and mental fortitude. Runners should prepare for long, slow sections with minimal support while navigating some of Southern California's most beautiful and challenging mountain terrain. With a race history dating back to 2014 and consistent annual editions, Nine Trails has established itself as a respected challenge in the California ultra scene. The race attracts runners seeking a genuine test of endurance and technical ability, offering an intimate event atmosphere with the kind of terrain that builds character and tests limits.
Starting at the Jesusita Trailhead, the course climbs approximately four miles to Inspiration Point before descending to the Tunnel Trail. Runners then tackle the rocky Tunnel Trail to Rattle Snake Trail junction, following it to Gibraltar Road. The route continues down Gibraltar Road to West Cold Spring Trailhead, descending the steep West Cold Spring Trail to the canyon bottom and creek crossing.
After crossing San Ysidro Creek at mile twelve, runners face the Edison Catwalk, known locally as "the wall" - a very steep, hot, and dusty section that epitomizes the race's difficulty. The course then follows Buena Vista Trail along the creek to Romero Canyon's bottom, reaching the turnaround point at Romero Canyon Trailhead before retracing the entire route back to Jesusita.
Practical Info
March in Santa Barbara typically offers mild temperatures with potential for morning marine layer, though conditions can vary from cool and overcast to warm and sunny.
SBA - Santa Barbara Municipal Airport
Santa Barbara offers numerous lodging options from budget motels to luxury resorts, with the race start approximately 20 minutes from downtown Santa Barbara.
Best For
Notable Features
What sets Nine Trails apart is its honest difficulty - this race doesn't oversell or undersell its challenge. The 35-mile distance masks a course that runs like a 50-miler, with technical terrain that demands respect and preparation. The intimate scale, stunning Santa Barbara front country setting, and reputation for being a genuine test of trail running skills has made it a favorite among runners who appreciate authentic mountain challenges over flashy production.