2026 Redding Marathon

The 2026 Redding Marathon will take place on January 18, 2026 in the city of Redding, California. The race will start at Shasta Dam and finish on the iconic glass Sundial Bridge, offering runners a scenic route along the Sacramento River and through historic townscapes. Weather on this date is expected to be cool, with average highs around 55 °F (13 °C) and lows near 35 °F (2 °C), and there is a possibility of light rain or wind, so participants should dress in layers. The event will feature a full marathon, a 3‑person marathon relay, and a 5‑k Sundial run, each with its own start times and support stations.

What distances are available for this event?

• →Marathon – 26.2 mi
• →Marathon Relay – 3‑leg relay: 9.7 mi, 10.3 mi, 6.2 mi
• →Sundial 5K – 5 k

When do the races start?

• →Marathon and Marathon Relay: 8:00 a.m. at Shasta Dam
• →Sundial 5K: 9:00 a.m. at Sundial Bridge

What are the race day bus departure times?

• →Buses depart from the Sundial Bridge at 6:30 a.m. (pre‑paid required)

Where can I pick up my bib before the race?

• →Fleet Feet – Friday, Jan 17, 2026, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. and Saturday, Jan 18, 2026, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. at 1376 Hilltop Drive, Redding

Can I collect a bib on race day?

• →Marathon/Relay: 6:30–6:45 a.m. at Sundial Bridge (no bibs available at the start line)
• →Sundial 5K: 8:00–8:45 a.m. at the race start (Sundial Bridge)

What support stations are available?

• →Water and Gatorade at all aid stations; station 1 offers only water
• →Gels begin at exchange #1 (9.8 mi); runners are encouraged to bring preferred gels

What awards are given for each race?

• →Marathon: Overall first place and 10‑year age‑group winners
• →Marathon Relay: Overall first place and first place in each category
• →Sundial 5K: 5‑year age‑group winners, awards presented at 10 a.m.

When are results posted during the event?

• →Marathon and Relay results printed every 20–30 minutes
• →5K results printed at 10 a.m.

What are the rules for the 3‑person Marathon relay?

• →Leg 1: 9.7 mi, Leg 2: 10.3 mi, Leg 3: 6.2 mi
• →All three finisher medals awarded at the Sundial Bridge finish line
• →Buses available to the leg 2 and leg 3 hand‑off points

Is there transportation to the start line?

• →Bus transport to the start from Sundial Bridge is available for those who signed up during registration

What is the course layout for the Marathon?

• →Start at Shasta Dam; first 9.7 mi to Keswick transition (leg 1‑2)
• →Miles 10–18: into Old Shasta, descending paved trail back to River Trail
• →Miles 18–26.2: rejoin Sacramento River Trail, cross Diestlhorst Bridge, run out‑and‑back on north side, finish on glass Sundial Bridge

What weather can participants expect on January 18, 2026?

• →Average high around 55 °F (13 °C); average low near 35 °F (2 °C)
• →Cool, possibly damp conditions; participants should dress in layers and consider wind or light rain

What is included in the race registration?

• →Bib and race number
• →Official race T‑shirt
• →Water and Gatorade at aid stations
• →Access to all aid stations and restroom facilities
• →Participation in award ceremony and medal

Are there any special instructions for the Marathon start?

• →Marathon and Relay participants must arrive at the Sundial Bridge between 6:30–6:45 a.m. for drop‑bag and pre‑race check‑in; no bibs are available at the actual start line

How can I receive my pre‑paid bus reservation confirmation?

• →Check the email account used for registration for instructions as the event approaches