2026 Sycamore Canyon

Sycamore Canyon Trail Races will take place on February 28, 2026, at the Goodman Ranch Sycamore Canyon Preserve in Lakeside, CA, within the San Diego area. The event is organized by San Diego Ultra Friends (SURF) and features a challenging multiple-loop trail course that offers runners a unique opportunity to navigate the preserve's rugged terrain. Weather conditions for the date are expected to be mild, with average high temperatures of 71°F and low temperatures of 48°F, and sunrise occurring around 6:55 AM, with sunset at 6:58 PM. Participants can expect a demanding yet scenic route that includes multiple loops, with elevation gains that test endurance and skill. The race is designed for experienced trail runners and includes a variety of distances, from 50K to 100K, as well as a half marathon and relay options.

What distances are available for this event?

• →100K Solo
• →50K Solo
• →50K / 100K Relays
• →Half Marathon

What are the start times for each race?

• →100K Solo: 5:00 AM
• →50K Solo: 6:00 AM
• →50K / 100K Relays: 6:00 AM
• →Half Marathon: 7:00 AM

What are the requirements for participating in the 100K Solo?

• →Solo runners must have completed at least one 50K or longer race previously.

What are the cutoff times for the event?

• →Course Closure: 10:00 PM
• →100K Last Loop: Must start the final loop by 7:45 PM (Firm cutoff)

What mandatory gear is required for the event?

• →Minimum 40oz of water carried at all times.
• →Lights are required for running after dark. You may not be allowed to finish without a light after 5:00 PM.

What are the safety rules for the event?

• →No aid accepted between aid stations (except medical emergencies).
• →Must check IN at every aid station.
• →No littering (results in disqualification).
• →Headphones not recommended (use at own risk).
• →Dogs allowed on course only if on a 6' max leash.

What are the rules regarding pacers?

• →Pacers are allowed for solo runners only.
• →Permitted after 5:00 PM OR at the start of your last lap if before 5:00 PM.
• →Pacers must check in and wear a pacer bib.

What are the categories available for the relay races?

• →Open (must have at least one female)
• →Women
• →Men

What are the rules regarding substitutions for relay teams?

• →Substitutions are allowed up to 24 hours before the race start.
• →No substitutions on race day; remaining team members must cover extra laps if a runner drops.

What are the rules for crew and tents at the event?

• →Only one tent per team allowed in the start/finish area.
• →Crew tents must check in/out at Race HQ when accessing your tent.

What are the rules for drop bags at the event?

• →Drop bags are designated at Race HQ.
• →Label with name, bib#, and distance.
• →Solo runners only (no relay drop bags).

What are the rules for packet pickup?

• →Early packet pickup: Hop Stop Poway on February 21st, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM.
• →Race morning packet pickup: Available starting at 4:30 AM at the venue.

What are the awards and prizes for the event?

• →All Entrants: Long sleeve tech shirt.
• →Finishers: Finisher award.
• →100K Solo:

• 1st Male/Female: Free race entry next year + $100 Cash.

• 2nd Male/Female: $50 Cash.

• →50K Solo:

• 1st Male/Female: Free race entry next year + $75 Cash.

• 2nd Male/Female: $50 Cash.

• →Relays: Prizes for participants and overall awards for first place in each category.
• →Half Marathon: 1st Male/Female receive free race entry next year + TBD Prize.

What is the terrain like for the event?

• →The course is a multiple-loop trail course based out of the Highway 67 Staging Area.
• →Loop distance: Approximately 12.8km (7.9 miles) per loop.
• →Elevation gain: Approximately 1,400 feet per loop.
• →50K Total Gain: ~5,600 feet (4 loops).
• →100K Total Gain: ~11,200 feet (8 loops).
• →Terrain conditions: Beautiful preserve setting with rough terrain. Runners must stay on marked trails.
• →Hazards: Be alert for mountain lions, rattlesnakes, sharp cliffs, and drop-offs. Safety is the runner's responsibility.

What is the relay format for the event?

• →Team size: 4 persons per team.
• →100K Relay: Each runner completes 2 laps (can be run consecutively or split).
• →50K Relay: Each runner completes 1 lap.