Headwaters Trail Runs
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Headwaters Trail Runs
Held June 20, 2026 in the Klamath Mountains west of Mount Shasta City, California, Headwaters Trail Runs offers three trail distances named for the headwaters of the Sacramento River.
- 52k: mountainous loop on single-track and dirt roads, ~8,000 feet elevation gain.
- 34k: mountainous loop on single-track and dirt roads, ~4,000 feet elevation gain.
- 10k: Lake Siskiyou Trail around Lake Siskiyou, about 400 feet total gain.
The 52k and 34k courses are loop routes run entirely on single-track trails and dirt forest roads, and include miles on the historic Sisson-Callahan National Recreation Trail. The 10k follows the Lake Siskiyou Trail along forested lake shores; the surface is about 99 percent dirt with a short paved section across Box Canyon Dam.
The event setting includes views of Mount Shasta (14,179 feet) and Mount Eddy (9,025 feet). Aid stations are fully stocked and the event is supported by volunteer staff. Participants receive a hearty, organic post-race meal prepared by a local chef, a commemorative race t-shirt, and a unique finisher's medal.
Headwaters Trail Runs is a cupless event; participants must carry their own drinking vessel for aid stations. Organizers work to reduce waste and encourage reusable plates, utensils, and cups. A portion of proceeds is donated annually to the Mt. Shasta High School cross-country team. The event is a project of a local 501(c)(3) organization and operates under required special use authorizations. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
