2026 Golden Gate Trail Run

The 2026 Golden Gate Trail Run takes place on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Rodeo Beach in Sausalito, California. As part of the Coastal Trail Runs series, the event features multiple race distances ranging from an 8K to a 50K ultramarathon. Participants will navigate a course primarily consisting of single-track and dirt roads through the Marin Headlands, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, and Mount Tamalpais. For early February in Sausalito, participants should prepare for cool, damp coastal conditions, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low 50s°F (7–12°C) and a potential for morning fog or light rain.

What are the available race distances and start times?

• →Kid’s Run (50 yd dash): 7:50 a.m. (Ages 6 & under, free)
• →30K: 8:00 a.m.
• →50K: 8:00 a.m.
• →Half Marathon: 8:15 a.m.
• →Marathon: 8:15 a.m.
• →8K: 8:30 a.m.

What is the elevation gain for each distance?

• →Kid’s Run: Minimal elevation
• →8K: 1,010 ft elevation gain
• →Half Marathon: 2,550 ft elevation gain
• →30K: 4,030 ft elevation gain
• →Marathon: 5,100 ft elevation gain
• →50K: 6,580 ft elevation gain

What is the course terrain composition for the 8K?

• →60% single track
• →33% dirt road
• →7% asphalt

What is the course terrain composition for the Half Marathon and Marathon?

• →52% single track
• →44% dirt road
• →4% asphalt

What is the course terrain composition for the 30K?

• →44% single track
• →50% dirt road
• →6% asphalt

What is the course terrain composition for the 50K?

• →48% single track
• →47% dirt road
• →5% asphalt

How is the course marked?

• →Color-coded ribbons mark specific distances (e.g., pink for Half Marathon, orange for the 30K extension).
• →Blue ribbons mark incorrect paths ("Blue is bad").
• →Courses are marked approximately every 200 yards.

What are the event schedule and logistics?

• →Bib pickup: 7:00 a.m. at Rodeo Beach picnic area.
• →Recommended arrival: 45 minutes before your start time.
• →Drop bags: Allowed for 30K, Marathon, and 50K runners at the Start/Finish area.
• →Headphones: Allowed only on dirt road sections for safety.

What aid and support are provided on course?

• →Fully stocked aid stations are located every 4–6 miles.
• →Supplies include water, Skratch electrolyte drinks, fruits, salty snacks, and candies.
• →This is a cupless event; participants must bring their own hydration cup or bottle.
• →Hydrapak SpeedCups are available for purchase at check-in.
• →Recommendation: Carry at least 20 oz of water between stations.

What are the time limits for the races?

• →Marathon: 8 hours 45 minutes (midpoint cutoff at mile 13 is 12:30 p.m.).
• →50K: 9 hours (midpoint cutoff at mile 19 is 1:00 p.m.).
• →Shorter distances (8K, Half Marathon, 30K): 8 hours.

What awards and results are available?

• →Timing: Chip-timed (MyLaps Bibtags) using gun time; live results posted every 10 minutes.
• →Finisher Medals: Awarded to all participants.
• →50K Finishers: Receive a custom coaster in addition to the medal.
• →Prizes: Top 3 overall men and women per distance receive race credits ($50, $35, $20).
• →Age Group Medals: Also awarded.

What are the key features of the Half Marathon course?

• →One pink-marked loop starting and finishing at Rodeo Beach.
• →Total elevation gain: 2,550 ft (777 m).
• →Key segments include:

• Initial climb out of Rodeo Beach on dirt road.

• Miura Way and Coastal Trail segments (narrow, technical single track).

• Tennessee Valley descent (runnable downhill).

• Hill 88 climb (steepest section, mix of single track and dirt road).

• Ridge and Wolfback Ridge return (panoramic views).

• Final descent to Rodeo Beach (fast, steep mix of dirt and gravel).

What should runners expect regarding trail conditions and safety?

• →Expect steep climbs, coastal cliffs, rolling ridgelines, and exposed sections.
• →Trails vary from smooth dirt to rutted and rocky technical sections.
• →Exposure to wind and coastal fog is common; light layers are recommended.
• →Poison oak often borders narrow single-tracks; runners should stay centered on the trail.
• →If flagging disappears for several minutes, runners are advised to retrace their steps.