Overall Rating
Overall Rating (43 Reviews)
4.8
(43 Ratings) 🏆 (43 Reviews)
DIFFICULTY
4.4
SCENERY
4.8
PRODUCTION
4.9
SWAG
4.7
Join us for a Half Marathon, 10K and 5K offering spectacular 360 degree views of the Bay Area! 2,430 acres of land extending north from Tilden Park, Wildcat Canyon Regional Park is normally inaccessible to trail runs due to a lack of staging area. Thanks to a generous concession by … MORE
Local Historical Weather (May 18):
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L (°F)  53  50  50  56  50
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Recent reviews

    alan.orcharton REPEAT RUNNER '23

    Parking is like 20 yards from start area. You can leave kit in he car. It’s very hilly - 3 monster climbs but there is a great section of single … MORE

    Parking is like 20 yards from start area. You can leave kit in he car. It’s very hilly – 3 monster climbs but there is a great section of single track in the middle. Fantastic views if the weather permits. Brazen do a great job with aid stations, t shirts and bling. This is a race you’ll want to do over and over. Not many toilets en route. Think this is one of the best trail half’s in the Oakland area.

    DIFFICULTY
    4
    PRODUCTION
    4
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    4

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    Fragileflower12 FIRST-TIMER '19

    This race is part of Brazen Racing’s Ultra Half Series. There is a reason for that🤣 I have done the 5k here many times but decided to try the half … MORE

    This race is part of Brazen Racing’s Ultra Half Series. There is a reason for that🤣 I have done the 5k here many times but decided to try the half this year. O. M. G! The bib pick up is smooth. The people are amazing. It is run fantastically well. I’m slow and hike/jog/run depending on how I’m feeling as of late. Because of this, I take their “Early Start” for hikers. This course is NO joke. 50 yards out of the start you’re starting uphill on trail. Immediately, it’s very scenic. We saw fox, cows and 6 deer in the first mile. This course is full of hills and false summits and the uphill start really challenged my leg strength/mental game for the back half of the race. If you can make it to mile 7 or so, the views are stunning. And…if you can make it through the steep decent around mile 9 or so~~you’re rewarded with hills and more hills worth of burn! But…that also means some of the most gorgeous views I’ve ever seen!! You can see for miles~~all the bridges of the Bay Area, SF, Oakland..etc etc. Gorgeous!! It’s def a race worth doing…but train for those hills cuz they just do. Not. Stop. 🤣

    DIFFICULTY
    4
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    4

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    Naomiegardner FIRST-TIMER '18

    Beautiful scenery which lead to lots and lots of hills. Nice trail running if you're into that. I learned I'm not so into trail running up and down hills. HOWEVER, … MORE

    Beautiful scenery which lead to lots and lots of hills. Nice trail running if you’re into that. I learned I’m not so into trail running up and down hills. HOWEVER, Brazen racing did such a great job with the event. I would do it again – but not try to run it – just to be around such positive and supportive hosts. (picture candy and water stations where you want/need it most)

    DIFFICULTY
    5
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    4

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    noneleft REPEAT RUNNER '18

    Third time running here, but first time "running" the 5k. The two previous times. I have run the half marathon. This race takes place at Wildcat Canyon Regional Park near … MORE

    Third time running here, but first time “running” the 5k. The two previous times. I have run the half marathon.
    This race takes place at Wildcat Canyon Regional Park near El Sobrante. Thanks to a concession by East Bay Waldorf School, Brazen Racing is allowed to have a staging area for the Wildcat Race. This 5k is a tough little course and is no joke, but at the top, you will be rewarded with views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Mount Tamalpais, and the Bay. The view really is exceptional. For this course, you head up hill and then down and then you will turn around at the aid station and go right back up the hill and then downhill, Total elevation is around 850 ft over the 3.1 miles.
    There is one aid station that is well stocked with water, Ultima sports drink, Gu, sweet and salty snacks, and fruit. The aid station volunteers are awesome.
    All participants receive, either a cotton for 5k/10k or a tech for half marathon. The Wildcat character is well done. The medal and shirt never disappoint.
    There is plenty of finish line food and don’t forget the famous it’s It ice cream sandwich.
    This race in 2016 was my first trail half marathon. Maybe, in 2019, I will give the 10k a shot.

    DIFFICULTY
    5
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    5

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    Grey2Phoenix REPEAT RUNNER '18

    I ran Wildcat a few years ago and decided to participate in Brazen Racing's Ultra Half Marathons series this year. I chose Wildcat as one of my races as it's … MORE

    I ran Wildcat a few years ago and decided to participate in Brazen Racing’s Ultra Half Marathons series this year. I chose Wildcat as one of my races as it’s close to where I live and I remember that the scenery was beautiful. The course is challenging! It’s a lot of running up and down trails that primarily are in open grasslands. There is one section of 1-2 miles that is in an oak grove forest. The trail in this section had lots of rocks and roots, so watch your footing.
    Over all the course is beautiful, featuring fabulous views of the entire Bay Area. I felt good running this race and plan to run it again next year!
    Brazen is always very organized and they had water and first aide stations throughout the course. They have every thing else well organized around the start/finish area.

    DIFFICULTY
    5
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    5

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    Jennynoel314 FIRST-TIMER '18

    Holy cats!!! This half marathon is part of the Ultra Series and it is no joke! Steep inclines. One crazy bananas descent. A bit of beautifully paved flat trail. It’s … MORE

    Holy cats!!! This half marathon is part of the Ultra Series and it is no joke! Steep inclines. One crazy bananas descent. A bit of beautifully paved flat trail. It’s gorgeous and hard. But when you finish, you’ll feel awesome.

    DIFFICULTY
    5
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    4

    1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

    PeteSinCA Jun 02, 2018 at 4:35pm

    If you do Trailquake, Rocky Ridge, or Summit Rock, the descents to the finish for those are pretty crazy as well. Worthwhile races, like Wildcat, but have to be done… MORE

    If you do Trailquake, Rocky Ridge, or Summit Rock, the descents to the finish for those are pretty crazy as well. Worthwhile races, like Wildcat, but have to be done with due care. The views around mile 11 or so in Wildcat are incredible. LESS

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    gcharlaj FIRST-TIMER '18

    I live in the area and have always wanted to participate in this event. I'm thrilled I achieved my goal! I was not as well prepared for the elevation changes … MORE

    I live in the area and have always wanted to participate in this event. I’m thrilled I achieved my goal! I was not as well prepared for the elevation changes as I would like, but I enjoyed my run regardless. Next time I’ll know to do more hill repeats in preparation 😉

    DIFFICULTY
    5
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    5

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    SamIam1972 REPEAT RUNNER '18

    Not going to lie, this isn't for the faint of heart. The first climb right out of the gate makes you question why you are doing this. Then, the second … MORE

    Not going to lie, this isn’t for the faint of heart. The first climb right out of the gate makes you question why you are doing this. Then, the second climb, and the third, and don’t forget that last big one at miles 10-12. But, the course is amazing and takes you on many different landscapes. The views of SF Bay are outstanding, and the aid stations are always full of what you need to get you through.

    DIFFICULTY
    4
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    5
    My Media

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    sgilbert9999 REPEAT RUNNER '18

    This is a race with serious hills and gorgeous views. I looked right and saw San Francisco, Marin, Oakland, the bay, the bridges and Mt. Tam (Sleeping Beauty). I looked … MORE

    This is a race with serious hills and gorgeous views. I looked right and saw San Francisco, Marin, Oakland, the bay, the bridges and Mt. Tam (Sleeping Beauty). I looked left and saw Mt. Diablo and the valley. One of the most beautiful Bay Area races but one of the most challenging.

    DIFFICULTY
    4
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    5

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    simcity28 FIRST-TIMER '18

    I loved this race because of the beautiful scenery but I have to say it was one of the hardest one's I've done. I'm not consistent or fast runner but … MORE

    I loved this race because of the beautiful scenery but I have to say it was one of the hardest one’s I’ve done. I’m not consistent or fast runner but I’ve got some stamina in me and this race tested it. If you love hills and a somewhat difficult terrain you will love this one. Completing the race felt like a wonderful accomplishment.

    DIFFICULTY
    5
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    5

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    debdra REPEAT RUNNER '18

    True to Brazen form always a challenge but an enjoyable one. Always feel a sense of accomplishment when I finish. Well marked I never doubted where I was. One of … MORE

    True to Brazen form always a challenge but an enjoyable one. Always feel a sense of accomplishment when I finish. Well marked I never doubted where I was. One of my faves.

    DIFFICULTY
    4
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    4

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    moiracaitlyn FIRST-TIMER '18

    Brazen Racing always puts on a great event. Their half marathons are not to be missed if you live in or are traveling to the Bay Area. They are no … MORE

    Brazen Racing always puts on a great event. Their half marathons are not to be missed if you live in or are traveling to the Bay Area. They are no joke- lots of elevation to be gained- but the views are worth it and the community is second to none. Supportive runners, funny banter, lots of skill out on those trails, incredible volunteers/support, and really awesome aid stations. I have 7 of these races on my calendar for the Summer and look forward to all the butt-whooping fun!

    DIFFICULTY
    3
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    4
    SWAG
    5

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    daannisshh REPEAT RUNNER '18

    I was dreading this race because of the hills. My sister talked me into doing it together and I'm really glad that we did! It was definitely a struggle getting … MORE

    I was dreading this race because of the hills. My sister talked me into doing it together and I’m really glad that we did! It was definitely a struggle getting up the hills, but I surprised myself by having a lot of energy and making it through. Definitely wasn’t anywhere near close to my best time, and I certainly struggled but I felt amazing afterwards.
    Plus, the view was magnificent. Getting over the hill was super worth it. And the medal is cool.

    DIFFICULTY
    4
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    5

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    Sama REPEAT RUNNER '18

    This was my worst time ever for a 5K but it was totally worth it. Great for Strength building working those leg muscles. I was glad I chose 5K for … MORE

    This was my worst time ever for a 5K but it was totally worth it. Great for Strength building working those leg muscles. I was glad I chose 5K for this not a 10K, but it’s always a celebration after with Brazen.

    DIFFICULTY
    5
    PRODUCTION
    4
    SCENERY
    4
    SWAG
    5

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    Slowpoke1 REPEAT RUNNER '18

    This is a very difficult hilly race. If you are a slower runner or hiker, I recommend the hiker start. There are aid stations, but you should bring water or … MORE

    This is a very difficult hilly race. If you are a slower runner or hiker, I recommend the hiker start. There are aid stations, but you should bring water or electrolyte drink if it is going to be warm.

    DIFFICULTY
    5
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    4
    SWAG
    4

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    kalinarun FIRST-TIMER '18

    This race has amazing views of San Francisco. It is tough because of the crazy amount of hills. Elevation gain over 2,400 feet. Very challenging but worth the views at … MORE

    This race has amazing views of San Francisco. It is tough because of the crazy amount of hills. Elevation gain over 2,400 feet. Very challenging but worth the views at the top of the hills.

    DIFFICULTY
    5
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    5

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    sfdahliagirl REPEAT RUNNER '17

    This race is one I do every year and every year I wonder why I don't run over here more often. It's beautiful, lots of hills and spectacular views. Brazen … MORE

    This race is one I do every year and every year I wonder why I don’t run over here more often. It’s beautiful, lots of hills and spectacular views. Brazen Racing supports runners in the most amazing way. Fully loaded aid stations with volunteers that are too notch to food at the end that will satisfy anyone. Medals are amazing and the swag is top notch.

    DIFFICULTY
    5
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    5
    My Media

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    tommy REPEAT RUNNER '17

    Great aid station support, well marked course, and fantastic views but you just have to remember to look up once in a while. You do get to run along the … MORE

    Great aid station support, well marked course, and fantastic views but you just have to remember to look up once in a while. You do get to run along the crest so you have a left and right scenic view going. Would definitely run this again.

    DIFFICULTY
    5
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    5

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    Profile photo of Barbara Rausch
    noneleft REPEAT RUNNER '17

    This race takes place at Wildcat Canyon Regional Park near El Sobrante. Thanks to a concession by East Bay Waldorf School, Brazen Racing is allowed to have a staging area … MORE

    This race takes place at Wildcat Canyon Regional Park near El Sobrante. Thanks to a concession by East Bay Waldorf School, Brazen Racing is allowed to have a staging area for the Wildcat Race. This half marathon is mostly run on fire roads with small sections of pavement and single track. There are a couple of tough hills, but at the top, you will be rewarded with views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Mount Tamalpais, and the Bay. The view really is exceptional. You will not be disappointed.
    There are three aid stations that are well stocked with water, Ultima sports drink, Gu, sweet and salty snacks, and fruit. The aid station volunteers are awesome.
    All participants receive, either a cotton for 5k/10k or a tech for half marathoners, shirt . I think the medal and shirt for Wildcat are one of the best designs for the year. The Wildcat character is well done.
    There is plenty of finish line food and don’t forget the famous it’s It ice cream sandwich.
    This race in 2016 was my first trail half marathon. Next year, I would like to run the 5k or 10k, but the half marathon holds a special place for me because it was my first trail half.

    DIFFICULTY
    3
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    5

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    golanthius REPEAT RUNNER '17

    From the custom shirts and one of a kind finishers medals to the snacks and the It's It at the finish line. Brazen takes great care of their runners. This … MORE

    From the custom shirts and one of a kind finishers medals to the snacks and the It’s It at the finish line. Brazen takes great care of their runners. This is truly a running community that feels like family.

    DIFFICULTY
    5
    PRODUCTION
    5
    SCENERY
    5
    SWAG
    5
    My Media

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  1. Races
  2. Wildcat Half Marathon, 10K & 5K