Bizz Johnson
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Bizz Johnson Marathon Events
The event offers a set of point to point trail races on the Bizz Johnson Trail through Lassen National Forest and BLM land, running from Westwood to Susanville with a finish at Hobo Camp. The full marathon is USATF certified and is a Boston Marathon qualifier. The overall course has a net downhill of 929 feet. The route begins with an initial climb of about 280 feet to Westwood Junction, then descends toward Susanville including roughly a 1300 foot drop over the final 20 miles.
The trail follows the former Fernley and Lassen Branch Line railroad corridor. Runners pass through the Susan River Canyon, cross the river on wooden railroad bridges about ten times, and run through two former railroad tunnels of about 800 feet and 450 feet in length near the finish. Starts are at remote trailheads and participants are transported to the starts by bus. Aid stations will provide HEED electrolyte and Hammer Gel for 2026, with paper cups available and optional Speedcups offered at packet pickup to reduce waste.
Distances offered:
- 50K
- Marathon USATF certified Boston qualifier
- Express Half Marathon runs the second half of the marathon route
- Express 10K covers the final 6.2 miles
All races conclude at Hobo Camp. There is no race day registration. Time limits and cutoffs apply for certain distances and awards are given to finishers and top places. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
