Big Sur Trail Marathon
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2026 Big Sur Trail Marathon, Half Marathon & 5 Mile
The 36th annual Big Sur Trail Marathon takes place in Andrew Molera State Park, California. The event features a course that climbs the Old Coast Road, offering views of the California coastline. The terrain includes several hills, and the event starts and finishes at the park picnic grounds.
Participation is limited to 300 runners across all distances. The available race distances are:
- Marathon
- Half Marathon
- 5 Mile
The course is marked with orange ribbons. Marathon and Half Marathon participants follow the Old Coast Road, with the full marathon including an additional out-and-back section. The 5 Mile course turns at the first aid station. A total course cut-off time of 6.5 hours is in place for all distances, and hikers or walkers are permitted to participate.
Aid stations are located at intervals along the route: mile 2.5 for all distances, with additional stations at miles 6.5, 10.5, 15.8, 19.7, and 23.7 depending on the race length. Portable restrooms are available at each aid station. All participants receive a T-shirt, while Marathon and Half Marathon finishers receive medals. Personalized award ribbons are provided to the top three male and female finishers in each age group.
Parking is available at Andrew Molera State Park for a $10 cash fee per vehicle. For safety reasons, headphones and audible music devices are prohibited on the course. Dogs are not permitted on the Old Coast Road but may be kept on a leash in developed park areas. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
