2026 Santa Cruz Trail Run
Santa Cruz Trail Run weaves redwoods, ridges, and coastal breezes into a scenic half.
Expected Race Date
~Aug 2026
Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.
Location
Santa Cruz, CA
Quick facts
- Date
- around August 2026 (expected)
- Location
- Santa Cruz, California
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Giant redwoods tower over the Santa Cruz Trail Run, a half-marathon that plunges runners into Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. The course coils through single-track, opens onto expansive roads, crosses sand, and even fords riverbeds before climbing to high ridges. Ocean breezes from the nearby coast provide relief on this strenuous but rewarding route. Aid stations every 5-6 miles keep runners fueled for the next beautiful section.
With a median field of around 112 finishers and runners from roughly eight states, the event maintains an intimate, community feel. About 15% of participants return in later years, drawn by the majestic setting and the challenge. The 6-hour time limit welcomes first-timers, while post-race food fit for a trail-running king or queen awaits at the finish. Families gather in the park to cheer, making this a hidden gem for those seeking a coastal redwoods adventure.
Race-provided description
Giant redwoods dominate the landscape in our Santa Cruz Trail Run. Aside from coiling single-track that opens up to expansive roads and paths–and even sand–participants will enjoy the ocean breezes pouring in from the Santa Cruz coast. This race delivers everything from river crossings to high ridges with aid stations every 5-6 miles for refueling before tackling the next beautiful, albeit strenuous, section. This is a perfect race for family and friends to attend. They can cheer, enjoy Henry Cowell park, and consume post-race food fit for a trail running king or queen! Park Information: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Start Times:30K – 8:30 AMHalf – 8:45 AM10K – 9:00 AM Check-In & Bib Pickup:Race Morning: 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM Time Limit: There is a 6 hour time limit for the race. All runners must be off the course by 2:30 PM. Capacity: The Santa Cruz Trail Run has a capacity of 330 runners, across all distances. Parking: Parking at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is $10.00. There is limited parking along…
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Forest, Coastal
Difficulty
Hilly
Quality Score
Solid Pick5616 years running
~112 finishers a year
growing or steady
15% returning runners
limited extras
runners from 8 states
winner 1:59:52
typical high 76°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
57°
Afternoon (High)
76°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.0"
Precipitation
8 mph
Wind
76%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Santa Cruz Trail Run?
The 2026 Santa Cruz Trail Run hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around August 2026 (expected).
Where does the 2026 Santa Cruz Trail Run take place?
It takes place in Santa Cruz, California.
What distances does the 2026 Santa Cruz Trail Run offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 Santa Cruz Trail Run course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Santa Cruz Trail Run is a hilly, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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