2026 Pacifica Foothills
The 2026 Pacifica Foothills trail run takes place on January 24, 2026, at San Pedro Valley County Park in Pacifica, California. Participants will navigate natural dirt trails featuring twisty singletrack, fire roads, and coastal foothill climbs on Mount Montara. The course is moderately technical with elevation changes, roots, and rugged terrain typical of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Runners can expect a scenic, challenging winter event with panoramic ocean vistas, redwood groves, and wildflower-covered slopes. Weather conditions in Pacifica during late January typically feature cool, damp conditions with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low 50s°F (7-11°C), though microclimates in the foothills can be cooler and windier. The terrain requires trail shoes with good grip and ankle support due to the technical nature of the course.
What distances are available for this event?
- →30K (18.6 miles) starting at 8:30 AM
- →Half Marathon (13.1 miles) starting at 8:45 AM
- →10K (6.2 miles) starting at 9:00 AM
What is the time limit for completing the race?
All runners must be off the course by 2:30 PM, providing a 6-hour time limit for all distances.
What is the total field size for the event?
The event has a field cap of 350 total runners across all distances.
What type of terrain should participants expect?
The course consists of mostly moderately technical singletrack with some fire road sections. Runners will encounter rolling coastal hills with significant climbs up Montara Mountain. The terrain includes roots and is considered rugged, typical of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Are trekking poles allowed during the race?
Yes, hiking and trekking poles are permitted on the course.
Are drop bags available at aid stations?
No, drop bags are not provided. Runners must be self-sufficient between aid stations.
How is the course marked for navigation?
The course uses color-coded surveyor ribbons placed approximately every 200 meters. Critical turns are heavily marked with multiple ribbons, laminated signs, and flour arrows when allowed. Blue ribbons indicate wrong way sections that must not be passed.
What items are available at aid stations?
Aid stations are stocked with:
- →Gu gels and chews
- →Stroopwaffles
- →Skratch Labs electrolyte drink
- →Coke and ginger ale
- →Boiled potatoes with salt
- →PB&J, chips, cookies, trail mix, jerky
- →Fresh fruit
What is the cupless policy?
The event is cupless, meaning no disposable cups are provided. Participants must bring their own reusable bottle or cup. HydraPak silicone collapsible cups are available for purchase at the race site for $5.
What is recommended for carrying fluids during the race?
Runners should bring at least one 20oz bottle, as aid stations are spaced far apart.
What is included with registration?
All participants receive:
- →Custom finisher medal
- →T-shirt (style and details confirmed closer to race day)
- →Professional chip timing via MyLaps with disposable chip on bib
- →Post-race spread of sweet and salty snacks, fruit, and packaged foods
How are awards determined?
- →Top 3 Overall (M/F per distance): Custom trophies based on gun time
- →Age Group Awards: Based on chip time
- →Dead Last Finisher (DLF): Special custom award
Is first aid available on course?
Basic first aid supplies are available at aid stations, but anti-inflammatories are not provided.
Are dogs allowed at the event?
No, dogs are not allowed in San Pedro Valley County Park.
What time is bib pickup?
Bib pickup occurs on race morning from 7:30–9:00 AM at the park entrance.
What is the parking situation?
Parking is available in the park lot for $6, with limited street parking nearby. Carpooling is encouraged.