Blue Heron 5K
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Blue Heron 5K
The Blue Heron 5K is a road race held on July 4, 2026 in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco. The event is organized by Excelsior Running Club and follows a rolling course that runs along JFK Drive, loops around Blue Heron Lake, and returns to Peacock Meadows. The course includes 135 feet of elevation gain and is timed by Ford Timing. The distance is 5k.
The event is part of the Pacific Association USATF Road Short Course Grand Prix Series and will include an elite field with prize money. PA USATF membership is required for prize money payouts. USATF athletes wearing headphones will be disqualified from prizes and Grand Prix scoring; this restriction does not apply to other participants, though all participants are asked to be cautious if they choose to wear headphones.
The race is open to the running community and welcomes runners and walkers of all ages. Strollers must start at the back and must not impede other participants. Portable bathrooms will be available in Peacock Meadows and there are six public restrooms in the immediate area at nearby park facilities including the conservatory of flowers, the carousel/playground, the tennis courts, the baseball fields, the Beer and Wine Garden, and Blue Heron Lake across from the Boat House.
Entry fees are tiered by registration date with separate rates for under 18 and parent-child entries. All entry fees are non refundable and transfers incur a $5 administrative fee. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
