Bear Creek
Bear Creek half marathon offers a challenging trail run through rolling hills and scenic parkland.
Race Date
Aug 8, 2026
Location
Orinda, CA
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, August 8, 2026
- Location
- Orinda, California
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 6.3 Miles, 3.1 Miles, 13.1 Miles
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 2,567
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Bear Creek half marathon, first run in 2009 and now in its 16th year, is a beloved fixture for trail runners. This challenging course winds through Briones Regional Park, a landscape known for its cows and expansive views.
Runners can expect a demanding 13.1-mile loop with approximately 3,100 feet of elevation gain, featuring a mix of shaded trails and exposed sections that test endurance. While the course is known for its significant climbs, the final stretch offers a rewarding downhill single track leading to a festive finish.
With a median field size of around 259 finishers and a repeat-runner loyalty of about 34%, Bear Creek has cultivated a dedicated following. The event draws participants from approximately 4 states, contributing to its intimate yet spirited atmosphere.
Race-provided description
All Bear Creek Race info (including registration links) here: https://brazenracing.com/bearcreek/ 5K, 10K and half marathon in Briones Regional Park, Lafayette, California.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, August 8, 2026
Start Time
7:30 AM
Giveaway
Race Shirt
Start Location
1611 Bear Creek Rd, Orinda, CA, 94563
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Park, Forest, Rural
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
Standout6316 years running
~259 finishers a year
shrinking
34% returning runners
8 timing sources
runners from 4 states
winner 1:52:55
typical high 71°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
56°
Afternoon (High)
73°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.0"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
80%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 2,567 finishers actually crossed the line across 16 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
2,567
Median time
2:54:16
Latest turnout
103
States
28
Turnout by year
2017–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Frequently asked
When is the Bear Creek?
The Bear Creek is held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, starting at 7:30 AM.
Where does the Bear Creek take place?
It takes place in Orinda, California.
What distances does the Bear Creek offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 6.3 Miles, 3.1 Miles, 13.1 Miles.
Is the Bear Creek course flat and good for a PR?
The Bear Creek is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the Bear Creek?
HalfRuns has finish records for 2,567 runners who have completed the Bear Creek.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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