2026 Big Bloops Ultra
The 2026 Big Bloops Ultra is set to take place on 27 February 2026 in Palo Alto, California, at the Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve Trailhead. The event will be held on the Adobe Creek Loop Trail, a 5-mile route that winds through scenic wetlands and waterways, offering runners a mix of smooth dirt and pavement surfaces. The weather in Palo Alto during this time is typically mild, with daytime temperatures averaging around 55°F (13°C) and nighttime temperatures dropping to about 45°F (7°C). Participants can expect a 24-hour timed endurance event where runners aim to complete as many 5-mile loops as possible, with the course open for continuous participation throughout the duration. The trail is extremely flat, making it accessible for runners of all abilities, and the setting provides an opportunity to experience nature in the Bay Area.
What is the format of the 2026 Big Bloops Ultra?
The event is a timed endurance race where participants aim to complete as many 5-mile loops as possible within a 24-hour window. Runners are allowed to leave the course and return during the event. Each loop is 5 miles, and participants may choose to run the full duration or just partial segments. The objective is to accumulate the highest number of completed loops.
What distances are available for this event?
- →5-mile loops ("bloops") around the Adobe Creek Loop Trail
What is the event type and terrain like?
The event is a mixed-terrain race, primarily on trail. The route consists of 4 miles of smooth dirt and 1 mile of pavement. The elevation gain and loss per loop is less than 20 feet, making the course extremely flat.
What is the event schedule?
The event starts on Friday, 27 February 2026, at 17:00 and ends on Saturday, 28 February 2026, at 17:00. The sunset on the first day is at 18:01, and on the second day at 18:02. The sunrise is at 06:42. Sunday is recommended as a recovery day.
What is the event's weather policy?
The event will proceed rain or shine and will not be canceled due to bad weather. Participants should be prepared for typical weather conditions for this time of year in Palo Alto.
How much does registration cost?
- →Free registration
What are the registration requirements?
Registration is mandatory for all participants, even for those joining for partial segments, to comply with park policies. The event is limited to 24 entries, making it highly exclusive.
What is included in the event?
Water is available along the course, and results will be collected and published. The event is unofficial, free, grassroots, and fully self-supported. No bibs, chip timing, awards, finisher medals, or on-course photographers are provided.
What is not included in the event?
- →No bibs
- →No chip timing
- →No awards
- →No finisher medals
- →No on-course photographers
What are the rules for completing loops?
Only complete 5-mile loops count toward the total. Partial loops do not count. Runners may choose to run loops in either a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. Runners are permitted to leave the course and return during the 24-hour period.
What is the event's scoring system?
The scoring system is based on the total number of completed 5-mile loops. Each loop must be fully completed to count toward the participant's score.
Are there any restrictions on participation?
The event is open to all abilities. Runners may join for the full duration or partial segments. However, the field is limited to 24 entries, making participation highly exclusive.
What is the event's location?
The event is held at the Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve Trailhead, located at 2690 Terminal Blvd, Palo Alto, CA 94303. The start and finish line are located just north of the trailhead at the pumphouse.