Note: Starting in 2023, Mendocino Running Festival will be directed by Michelle Pool.
The Mendocino Running Festival reflects the glory of Mendocino Woodlands State Park. Just outside of Mendocino proper, we continue the tradition of running through the gorgeous Mendocino forest. A full weekend of fun awaits runners of all distances, along with plenty of activities for the entire family. After your run, enjoy more incredible food and drink while meeting fun folks, soaking in the nearby river, listening to music, and sipping on local wine. We have many other surprises treats in store for this festive event.
(Note for dog owners: Mendocino Woodlands State Park has a strict no-dog policy. The only exception is for ADA-compliant guide dogs.)
Courses – Go Short or Go Long!
The racecourse consists of a 6-mile loop that has about 850 feet of climbing. From Camp, you head out uphill on singletrack to the Summit Aid Station. This first section rolls through the hills and contains all the climb over about 2 miles. Then you head downhill on single-track with views of the valley and, in the near distance, Big River. At the bottom of the hill, you’ll cross the main road into the Marsh Creek watershed, where you’ll roll along fairly flat trails for 2 miles. The 10k and half-marathon follow this same course with brief out-and-backs at the start to make sure that the distance is right.
This Is Why It’s A FESTIVAL! (Camping)
Our new location is built for festivals such as ours. There are 21 tent cabins and a full family-camp-style facility. All are welcome. As in the past, bring your family and friends non-runners and runners alike. You, your friends, and your family are guaranteed a great time and deeper connection to one another and our running community. You can register for housing without signing up to run. Click on the Registration Button and look for the link under CAMPING at Ultrasignup.
There is also tent camping. You can also find the detail for this, reserve spots, and buy meal passes for non-runners registration. Camp assignments will be published on August 1. Reserve your spot early as they will fill up! For a more detailed description of Scena Camp and an outline of the layout, click here.
Again this year, we hope is to continue the tradition of the one-of-a-kind post-run BBQ, beer, wine, campfire, and live music.
If We Come, Will You Feed Us?
Yes, we will do our best! There will be coffee, cereal, fruit, yogurt, and some baked goods in the morning and snacks throughout the day. Registration for runners is meant to cover all your food during the stay. In the past, people have brought additional things to share, making this a running family camp. Some campers bring their own food and prepare it in the Scena Commons. That’s great, too!
As in the past, we will also serve two meals on Saturday, lunch, and dinner. 10k and half-marathon registrations include a light lunch. 6 and 12-hour registrations include a heavier dinner, in keeping with the ultra tradition. All runners will be welcome to drinks, including beer and wine.
We welcome non-runners for the day and for camping. If you have non-runners, we ask that they purchase a meal pass. Kids are free.
Results
2021 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016