2026 Rattlesnake Dick

The 2026 Rattlesnake Dick event is scheduled for March 21, 2026, in Cool, California, with the primary start and finish located at the Cool Staging Area. The event takes place in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, offering a challenging and scenic trail experience through historic Gold Country terrain. On this date, the expected weather in Cool is likely to be mild, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 60°F and mostly clear skies, providing favorable conditions for outdoor activity. Participants can expect to navigate single-track and mixed-terrain foothill trails, with elevation profiles and trail-mapping platform links available to aid in preparation. The event includes three distances—50K, 25K, and 10K—each with distinct start times and cutoffs, and all share the same trail system, making it accessible to a wide range of runners and hikers.

What distances are available for this event?

• →50K: ~31 miles with 4,700 ft elevation gain / 4,700 ft loss, starting at 8:00 AM
• →25K: Shares the 8:00 AM start with the 50K, 10-hour cutoff, same hiker-friendly trail terrain
• →10K: Starts at 8:30 AM, no cutoff, designed to be accessible for all paces on the same trail system

What is the start and finish location for the event?

The start and finish for all distances is at the Cool Staging Area, located at 7200 Saint Florian Court, Cool, CA 95614.

Where can participants pick up their race packets?

Participants can pick up their race packets at two locations:

• →Early packet pick-up: Friday, March 20th, from 3–7 PM at the Placer County Visitors Bureau & California Welcome Center in Auburn, 1103 High Street, Suite 150, Auburn, CA 95603
• →Race morning packet pick-up: Saturday, March 21st, from 6–8 AM at the Cool Staging Area

What are the cutoff times for the event?

• →50K: 10 hours total; mandatory intermediate cutoffs at Rattlesnake Bar (12:30 PM) and Portland Avenue 2 (3:45 PM)
• →25K: 10 hours
• →10K: No cutoff

What is included in the participant perks?

All registered participants receive a North Fork Clothing "Rattlesnake Dick" shirt. Official finishers under 10 hours receive a high-quality finisher's medal. Additional perks include professional race timing chips and live tracking/results via UltraLive.

Are trekking poles allowed at the event?

Yes, trekking poles are permitted at the 2026 Rattlesnake Dick event.

What is the event theme and historical significance?

The event celebrates the legend of Rattlesnake Dick (Richard H. Barter, 1833–1859), known as the "Pirate of the Placers" who roamed the Auburn hills in 1856. The course features historic Gold Country terrain tied to this local legend.

Is there a coaching option available for participants?

Yes, an exclusive coaching option is available: a Static beginner/intermediate 50K training plan from Cole Watson (2024 course record holder: 4:04:05) for $50. The plan assumes 4–8 weeks of base mileage, 5–6 training days per week, and ~30–60 miles per week. Contact watson.cole@outlook.com to register or ask questions.

What is the format of the course?

The course is a trail event featuring single-track and mixed-terrain foothill trails. Elevation profiles and trail-mapping platform links are provided to help participants prepare. The 50K and 25K are hiker and back-of-the-pack friendly, with the 10K being accessible for all paces.

What is the event's weather forecast for the date?

For March 21, 2026, in Cool, the expected weather conditions are mild, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 60°F and mostly clear skies. Participants should prepare for variable conditions and dress accordingly.

What is the race schedule?

• →50K & 25K: Start at 8:00 AM
• →10K: Start at 8:30 AM
• →Packet pick-up is available on Friday and race morning
• →Cutoff times vary by distance, with the 50K having intermediate cutoffs at Rattlesnake Bar and Portland Avenue 2, and a final cutoff of 10 hours at the finish

Are there any awards or prizes for participants?

Official finishers under 10 hours receive a high-quality finisher's medal. All registered participants receive a North Fork Clothing "Rattlesnake Dick" shirt. Professional race timing chips and live tracking via UltraLive are provided for all participants.