Nitro Trail 2026
Nitro Trail 2026 takes place on May 30, 2026, at the Point Pinole Regional Shoreline Park in Richmond, California, near San Pablo. Participants can expect typical late-spring coastal weather for the East Bay, often characterized by mild temperatures and potential morning fog that clears to sunny, breezy conditions. The event offers a variety of trail running distances through a historically significant landscape featuring eucalyptus woodlands, wildflowers, and expansive views of the San Francisco Bay.
What are the available race distances and start times?
- →8:00 AM — Half Hikers (Hiker Division)
- →8:30 AM — Half Marathon
- →8:45 AM — 10K
- →9:00 AM — 5K
What are the specific course details for each distance?
- →5K: A loop course featuring one water station.
- →10K: A loop course that includes short sections of paved walking/bike paths and three water stations.
- →Half Marathon: A two-loop course (running the 10K loop twice) that includes paved path sections and six water stations.
What is the Hiker Division for the Half Marathon?
For participants who require more than 4.5 hours to complete the course, a dedicated Hiker Division start is available at 8:00 AM. Key details include:
- →Hikers must carry their own water as the first and second aid stations may not be fully operational at the early start time.
- →Participants in this division are not eligible for race wins or age group awards.
- →Hikers will be listed as official finishers in the Hiker Division.
- →All hikers will still receive a finisher medal.
Are there any time limits or strict pacing rules?
- →The Half Marathon has a 4-hour time limit.
- →Runners must complete the first loop (mile 6.93) by 10:30 AM.
What facilities are available on the course?
- →Bathrooms: Port-a-potties are available at the start/finish area, plus four additional locations on the course. Half marathon runners will pass all locations twice, totaling eight opportunities.
- →Aid Stations: Stations are stocked with water, sports drinks, gels, pretzels, and candy.
Where can I download the course maps?
GPX files are available for download via the following links:
- →Half Marathon: Ride With GPS ↗
- →10K: Ride With GPS ↗
- →5K: Ride With GPS ↗
What is the terrain and scenery like?
All courses run primarily on fire trails through Point Pinole Regional Shoreline Park, consisting of easy rolling hills and flat sections. The routes stay entirely within the park with no street running or street crossings. The course offers panoramic bay views with sightlines across seven counties and multiple bridges, passing through eucalyptus groves and historical sites.