Wildcat 2026
Wildcat 2026 takes place on May 16, 2026, at Wildcat Canyon Regional Park in the Richmond/Berkeley Hills area of El Sobrante, California. Participants can expect typical mid-May Bay Area weather, which often features mild temperatures with sunny skies and a refreshing coastal breeze, though morning fog may linger in the hills. This mixed-terrain trail run offers access to 2,430 acres of scenic trails providing 360-degree views of the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Mount Tamalpais, the Bay, and the ocean.
What race distances and categories are available?
- →Half Marathon (21K): The main distance featuring fire trails and a section of single track.
- →10K: A course consisting of fire trails with minimal paved sections.
- →5K: An out-and-back course utilizing fire trails.
- →Hiker Division: A specific category for Half Marathon participants expecting to finish in more than 4.5 hours.
What is the event schedule and start times?
- →7:00 AM: Half Hikers (Hiker Division)
- →8:00 AM: Half Marathon
- →8:15 AM: 10K
- →8:30 AM: 5K
What is the course terrain like?
The routes are primarily composed of fire trails, with less than 10% of the course being paved (mostly at the start/finish on a grassy field and small paved sections). The Half Marathon includes a section of single track. The terrain is characterized by challenging, view-rewarding hills where walking the uphills is recommended to conserve energy for the flats and descents.
What is included with registration?
- →Custom finisher medals for all finishers.
- →Event t-shirts for all finishers.
- →Electronic chip timing for all races.
What are the time limits and cutoffs for the Half Marathon?
- →Total Course Limit: Participants must finish the course by 12:30 PM.
- →Aid Station Cutoff: Participants must reach Aid Station 4 (located at mile 9.73) by 11:20 AM (approximately a 20+ min/mile pace).
How are the courses marked and navigated?
Courses are marked using colored ribbons, signs, and flour, with volunteers stationed at key junctions. Navigation is straightforward as no courses have runners going in opposite directions, with the exception of the 5K out-and-back section. Digital GPX files are available for download via Brazen ↗, Brazen ↗, and Brazen ↗.
What hydration and nutrition is provided?
Aid stations are stocked with water, sports drinks, gels, pretzels, and candy. The number of stations depends on the distance:
- →5K: 1 station
- →10K: 2 stations
- →Half Marathon: 4 stations
Runners requiring more frequent hydration are encouraged to carry their own water bottle or hydration pack. Note that Hiker Division participants starting at 7:00 AM should carry their own water, as aid stations may not be fully set up at that time.
Are there awards for the Hiker Division?
Participants in the Hiker Division receive official finisher status and medals; however, they are not eligible for age group awards.