Trail running course through mixed terrain in California
Oakland Hills Trail Run

Oakland Hills Trail Run 10K

·1,600m gain·Oakland
foresttechnicaltrail10k

Photo by DJ on Unsplash

Distance
Gain1,600m
DateDate TBA
Difficulty1/5

About This Race

The 10K serves as an approachable introduction to the park's trail system, focusing on the most scenic and runnable sections among the redwoods. This shorter distance emphasizes the natural beauty over technical challenge, making it perfect for first-time trail runners or those seeking a spirited workout in a stunning setting. The course highlights why Redwood Regional Park remains a beloved training ground for Bay Area runners.

The courses utilize the extensive trail network within Redwood Regional Park and the adjacent EBMUD Southern Watershed. Runners navigate a mix of technical singletrack and wider fire roads, with the terrain varying from peaceful redwood groves to open chaparral and grassland sections. The hills are notably steep and challenging, with hiking poles permitted for those who choose to use them.

Course marking follows Inside Trail Racing's comprehensive system using colored surveyor ribbons every 200 meters, with heavy marking at turns and laminated signs at critical sections. Blue ribbons specifically indicate wrong-way trails, serving as important navigation aids on this complex trail network. The varied terrain and elevation profiles make this a technically demanding course that rewards careful pacing and navigation skills.

Elevation Profile

Course Map

Route based on official course data. Download GPX file

Practical Info

Weather

Late October in the Oakland Hills typically brings mild temperatures with possible morning fog, ideal for trail running.

Nearest Airport

OAK - Oakland International Airport

Accommodation

Oakland and Berkeley offer numerous lodging options within 30 minutes of the race start.

Required Gear
  • Water bottle or reusable cup

Best For

Trail runners seeking technical terrainBay Area localsRedwood forest enthusiasts

Notable Features

The race's standout feature is its setting in a second-growth coast redwood forest that rises majestically just miles from a major metropolitan area. The combination of towering redwoods, diverse ecosystems within a single park, and the opportunity to spot rare wildlife like golden eagles creates a uniquely Californian trail running experience. Inside Trail Racing's cupless event policy and comprehensive aid station offerings reflect modern sustainability practices while maintaining high runner support standards.

Other Distances at This Event

Half Marathon

5,249 ft gain

The courses utilize the extensive trail network within Redwood Regional Park and the adjacent EBMUD Southern Watershed. Runners navigate a mix of technical singletrack and wider fire roads, with the terrain varying from peaceful redwood groves to open chaparral and grassland sections. The hills are notably steep and challenging, with hiking poles permitted for those who choose to use them. Course marking follows Inside Trail Racing's comprehensive system using colored surveyor ribbons every 200 meters, with heavy marking at turns and laminated signs at critical sections. Blue ribbons specifically indicate wrong-way trails, serving as important navigation aids on this complex trail network. The varied terrain and elevation profiles make this a technically demanding course that rewards careful pacing and navigation skills.

35K

5,249 ft gain

The courses utilize the extensive trail network within Redwood Regional Park and the adjacent EBMUD Southern Watershed. Runners navigate a mix of technical singletrack and wider fire roads, with the terrain varying from peaceful redwood groves to open chaparral and grassland sections. The hills are notably steep and challenging, with hiking poles permitted for those who choose to use them. Course marking follows Inside Trail Racing's comprehensive system using colored surveyor ribbons every 200 meters, with heavy marking at turns and laminated signs at critical sections. Blue ribbons specifically indicate wrong-way trails, serving as important navigation aids on this complex trail network. The varied terrain and elevation profiles make this a technically demanding course that rewards careful pacing and navigation skills.