Mendocino Running Festival

Formerly known as the Ancient Redwood Running Festival, the Mendocino Running Festival reflects the glory of our new home, in 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 race course 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.

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.