2026 Redtail Ridge Trail Run

The 2026 Chabot/Redtail Ridge Trail Run will take place on February 21, 2026, in Castro Valley, California, within Lake Chabot Regional Park and its adjoining Anthony Chabot Regional Park. The event is set against a backdrop of eucalyptus forests, open meadows, and lakeside paths, offering a mix of dirt trails, fire roads, and paved sections. The course is designed to be moderately technical, with a focus on accessibility for runners of varying skill levels. Weather conditions for February 21 in Castro Valley are expected to be mild, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 60°F and mostly clear skies. Participants can anticipate a scenic and challenging route that balances runnable sections with natural trail elements, making it a unique opportunity for runners seeking both a competitive and immersive experience.

What distances are available for this event?

• →5K: 3.1 miles with 110′ elevation gain
• →10K: 6.4 miles with 650′ elevation gain
• →Half Marathon: 13.1 miles with 1,800′ elevation gain
• →30K: 18.9 miles with 2,300′ elevation gain
• →50K: 31.4 miles with 3,800′ elevation gain

What is the race day schedule?

• →Check-in & bib pickup: 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
• →Start times: 50K/30K at 8:30 AM, Half at 8:45 AM, 10K at 9:00 AM, 5K at 9:15 AM
• →Course closure: 5:00 PM (8.5-hour time limit for 50K/30K)

What are the key features of this event?

• →Professionally chip-timed with disposable bib chips
• →Cupless event: runners must carry their own bottle or reusable cup (HydraPak cups available for $5)
• →Aid stations stocked with Skratch Labs electrolyte drink, Gu products, PB&J, chips, fruit, and more
• →Dog-friendly (leashed only; must start at the back of the pack)
• →No drop bags available; runners encouraged to carry at least one 20oz water vessel
• →Course marked with colored ribbons (blue ribbons indicate wrong-way trails)
• →500-runner cap across all distances

What awards are offered at this event?

• →Custom finisher medals for all participants
• →Pint glass for 50K finishers
• →Overall and age-group awards (13 and under through 70+)
• →A special Dead Last Finisher award
• →Post-race food includes Baja Fresh for 30K/50K runners and a broad snack selection for all

What is the terrain like on the course?

• →Predominantly dirt trails and fire roads with occasional paved sections
• →Features moderately technical singletrack and non-technical wide paths
• →Intended to be one of the faster, more runnable trail races in the region
• →Offers a balance of technical and runnable sections, suitable for both experienced and novice trail runners

What should participants bring?

• →A reusable water vessel or a bottle (HydraPak cups available for $5)
• →A leashed dog, if participating in the dog-friendly option
• →A personal hydration system, as no drop bags are available
• →A bib chip for timing, which is provided upon check-in

What is the course layout?

• →The route winds through Lake Chabot Regional Park and into Anthony Chabot Regional Park
• →Features eucalyptus forests, open grassy meadows, lakeside paths, and hilltop vistas
• →Longer distances traverse both parks, utilizing over 20 miles of interconnected trails
• →Includes a mix of singletrack, fire roads, and paved sections

What are the weather considerations?

• →Expected temperatures range from 45°F to 60°F on February 21, 2026
• →Mostly clear skies are anticipated, with minimal chance of precipitation
• →Runners should prepare for mild conditions and dress in layers for comfort
• →The course is not affected by extreme weather conditions, but participants should remain aware of changing conditions throughout the day

What is included in the registration?

• →Access to the course and all aid stations
• →Chip-timed results
• →Custom finisher medals for all participants
• →Post-race food for all runners, including Baja Fresh for 30K/50K finishers
• →A selection of snacks and beverages at the finish line

Are there any restrictions on participation?

• →Dogs are allowed but must be leashed and start at the back of the pack
• →No drop bags are available; runners must carry all necessary gear
• →The event is cupless, requiring runners to bring their own hydration
• →The course is marked with colored ribbons, with blue ribbons indicating wrong-way trails
• →A 500-runner cap is in place across all distances to ensure a quality experience for all participants