Golden Gate Trail Run (Summer)

If the majestic views of the Marin Headlands, Golden Gate Bridge or San Francisco Bay don’t take your breath away along this gorgeous course, the killer uphill start in the first 2 miles of the race will. The race course is primarily on hiking trails or dirt roads, and just when you think you’re gracefully running downhill towards the finish line at Rodeo Beach, be prepared to take a sharp left up into the final hill pass with the last 2-3 miles on pavement shared with a few tourists in cars. Race day was sunny and crystal clear, a surprise for typically marine overcast Bay Area in the summers, so be prepared with layers in case the strong wind gusts or sweeping fog catch you off guard on course. If you’re a jog/walker up hills as I was, it’s better to start in the middle of the pack than in the back as I did, as the largely single track up the first hill pass can slow your time than even a normal hiking pace alone on the same course. Course aid stations are found every 4-5 miles with energizing snacks from shot blocks, oreos, peanut butter pretzels and electrolyte drinks, but be sure to carry a 20oz water bottle as I did to get by in between, especially if you’re prone to a lot of water loss like myself. Trail aid volunteers didn’t always have water ready in cups, so be prepared to wait in line or serve yourself. The trails are a bit rocky, so be sure to have some cushion for your soles and stretch those calves, or you could end up with mild plantar fasciitis as I did! A beautiful race and great intro to trail racing!