The Holcomb Valley Trail Run was established by Gary & Pam Kalina in 1997. Gary was an avid runner; he realized that some of the best trail running in Southern California was right here in Big Bear. And some of the best trail running in Big Bear was on the Pacific Crest Trail.
The Pacific Crest Trail is a 2800 mile trail that runs from the Mexican to the Canadian border. The section that runs through Big Bear, and that the race travels on, offers spectacular views of Big Bear Lake, the San Gorgonio Wilderness and Big Bear Mountain Ski Resorts.
The event is a fund raiser for the local volunteer search and rescue organization. Search & Rescue bring out over 20 volunteers to assist in the operation of the event, staffing aid stations, marking course, providing communication, safety, and of course, if needed, first aid. Their involvement is crucial to the success of the event.
The Course
Due to ongoing US Forest Service permitting challenges, we’re planning to shift the race to Big Bear’s South Shore trails. This change opens the door to some of the most stunning terrain in Big Bear with wide‑open views, beautiful forested sections, and some truly majestic singletrack.
Elevation Gain/Loss:
33 MILE: +4,400ft/-4,400ft
15 MILE: +1,950ft/-1,950ft
9 MILE: +1,100ft/-1,100ft
5 MILE: +560ft/-560ft
LESS
Great weather, great course
Nicely placed and plentiful aid stations with my favorite boiled red potatoes! The 15 miler (which was only 14.5 on my GPS) starts with a climb up a couple miles, … MORE
Nicely placed and plentiful aid stations with my favorite boiled red potatoes!
The 15 miler (which was only 14.5 on my GPS) starts with a climb up a couple miles, then a loop through a valley which was gently rolling, moderate hills, a short stretch along the Pacific Crest trail with awesome views, then back down on the same trail we went up. The valley loop is on fireroads, the rest is on trails.
Only 300 people participated across the three distances offered, so it was not crowded in any way.
Finish line at the picnic area had chilli and smoothies for runners and their family. Yes, it was canned chilli, heated on a coleman stove, but it definitely hit the spot.
Love the T-shirt and water bottle.
My family stayed near the downtown area, and I was able to ride my bike to the start (only a few miles away), so they could sleep in and meet me later. For those who drove, there was plenty of parking. The start/finish is a nice picnic area with tables, bathrooms, water, dumpsters, etc.