2026 Sierra Azul Trail Challenge
The 2026 Sierra Azul Trail Challenge will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Almaden Quicksilver County Park, specifically at the Hacienda Entrance located at 21785 Almaden Rd, San Jose, California, USA. This challenging trail event, hosted by TCTRuns, is set within the scenic Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve, offering runners a rugged and scenic course that climbs through the area’s natural beauty. The event will start at 8:00 AM, with the last runners expected to finish by 6:00 PM. Based on historical weather data, San Jose in April typically experiences mild temperatures, with daytime highs around 65°F (18°C) and nighttime lows around 45°F (7°C). Participants should expect variable conditions, including possible light rain or overcast skies, and should prepare accordingly.
What distances are available for this event?
- →5K race
- →7-mile race
- →Half Marathon
- →20-mile race
- →Trail Marathon
- →50K race
How much does registration cost?
- →5K: $55 (early registration), $65 (race day)
- →7 Mile: $70 (early registration), $80 (race day)
- →Half Marathon: $85 (early registration), $95 (race day)
- →20 Mile: $95 (early registration), $105 (race day)
- →Trail Marathon: $105 (early registration), $115 (race day)
- →50K: $115 (early registration), $125 (race day)
What is the event schedule?
- →6:30 AM – Parking lots open
- →7:00 AM – Runner check-in, bib pickup & race day registration opens
- →7:45 AM – Trail briefing
- →8:00 AM – Race start (all distances)
- →6:00 PM – Race officially over (10-hour time limit)
What is the course like?
All courses are out and back, marked with solid pink ribbons tied to clothespins, signs, and gypsum. Toilets are available at the start/finish and at the Woods Aid Station. Each distance has a distinct route with varying elevation gains and aid station stops.
What is included in the registration?
Participants will receive a race bib, access to aid stations along the course, and a finisher’s medal. Drop bag service is available for 20 Mile, Trail Marathon, and 50K runners, allowing them to leave belongings at designated points along the course.
Are there aid stations along the course?
Yes, aid stations are available at various points along the course, including:
- →Hacienda Start/Finish
- →Woods Aid Station
- →Barlow Rd Water Stop
- →Kennedy Aid Station
- →Priest Rock Aid Station
The availability of aid stations varies by race distance.
What is the cutoff time for each race?
- →5K and 7 Mile: No strict cutoff, but all runners must finish by 6:00 PM
- →Half Marathon: 12:30 PM (4.5-hour limit)
- →20 Mile: 6:00 PM (10-hour limit)
- →Trail Marathon: 6:00 PM (10-hour limit)
- →50K: 6:00 PM (10-hour limit)
What is the drop bag policy?
Drop bags are available for 20 Mile, Trail Marathon, and 50K runners. Bags can be dropped off at Hacienda Start/Finish and transported to:
- →Kennedy Aid Station (Mile 10.0)
- →Priest Rock Aid Station (Mile 13.0)
Staff will return all bags to the Hacienda Finish Line after the race.
What is the weather forecast for the event?
On April 18, 2026, San Jose is expected to have mild temperatures with a high of approximately 65°F (18°C) and a low of around 45°F (7°C). There is a possibility of light rain or overcast skies, so runners are encouraged to bring appropriate gear for variable conditions.
Are there any specific race bib colors or markings?
Yes, bibs are color-coded for each race distance:
- →5K and 7 Mile: Black numbers on white background
- →Half Marathon and 20 Mile: Red numbers on white background
- →Trail Marathon and 50K: Black numbers on yellow background
What are the route details for each race?
- →5K: Route link text ↗
- →7 Mile: Route link text ↗
- →Half Marathon: Route link text ↗
- →20 Mile: Route link text ↗
- →Trail Marathon: Route link text ↗
- →50K: Route link text ↗