Rodeo Valley Trail Run 2026
The Rodeo Valley Trail Run takes place on August 1, 2026, in Sausalito, California, within the scenic Marin Headlands of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Participants will navigate a rugged coastal landscape featuring technical singletrack, steep climbs, and fast descents. In early August, Sausalito typically experiences mild coastal weather, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to low 70s Fahrenheit (13-22°C), though runners should prepare for potential coastal fog and breezy conditions near the Pacific Ocean.
What distances are available for this event?
- →8K (Moderate difficulty)
- →Half Marathon (Challenging difficulty)
- →30K (Very challenging difficulty)
- →50K (Tough ultratrail difficulty)
What is the race schedule and start times?
- →Race day check-in and bib pickup: 6:15 AM – 7:45 AM
- →50K & 30K start times: 7:00 AM
- →Half Marathon start time: 7:15 AM
- →8K start time: 7:45 AM
Where can I find the course maps and elevation profiles?
Detailed information regarding the route can be found through the following links:
- →Course Map: InsideTrail ↗
- →Turn-by-turn directions: InsideTrail ↗
- →Elevation profiles: InsideTrail ↗
What is the terrain and course difficulty like?
The course is a true trail race located in the Marin Headlands, characterized by constant undulations with no long flat sections. Runners will encounter "punchy" hills, steep climbs, and long downhill sections across singletrack trails and coastal paths. Key highlights include the Coastal Trail and Pirates Cove, offering ocean views, and the SCA Trail, which provides views of the San Francisco skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge. Due to the technical nature and exposure, the 50K is considered a tough ultratrail, while the 8K is rated as moderate.
What aid stations are provided during the race?
Aid stations are well-stocked to support runners through the technical terrain. Offerings include:
- →Drinks: Water, Skratch hydration, and soda
- →Energy supplies: Energy gels (with some zone restrictions), chews, and stroopwafels
- →Real food: PB&J, potatoes, fruit, chips, and cookies
- →Other: Electrolytes and basic first aid
Note: Because of the spacing between stations, runners are required to carry at least one 20 oz bottle.
What awards are given to participants?
- →All finishers receive a medal
- →50K finishers receive a special pint glass
- →Top 3 overall male and female per distance
- →Age group awards (3 deep)
- →"Dead Last Finisher" award for each race distance
Are there any time limits or wildlife considerations?
- →The 50K distance has a time limit of 8.5 hours.
- →The course is located in a natural habitat where runners may encounter wildlife, including foxes, coyotes, bobcats, and occasionally mountain lions.