Mammoth Trail Fest

SEP
24-27
2026
The Mammoth Trail Fest is a weekend of high-altitude trail running in California's Sierra Nevada. Races include a mountain ascent, a nighttime 10K, and classic 50K and 26K distances. The event emphasizes sustainability and features stunning courses around Mammoth Lakes.
24-27 Sep 2026

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Race Information

The Mammoth Trail Fest is a multi-day trail running event held in Mammoth Lakes, California. The event takes place at the Village at Mammoth Plaza.

Schedule of Races

The weekend features several races across different distances:

  • Friday: Dragon's Back Ascent (a climb to the summit of Mammoth Mountain at 11,053 feet) and a 10K nighttime race.
  • Saturday: A 50K race and a kids' 1K run.
  • Sunday: A 26K race.

A "Mammoth Triple" challenge is also offered for completing multiple races.

Race Rules and Safety

All courses use USFS land and are open to other public users during the event. Bibs must be worn and visible. Littering, course cutting, or speeding by support crews can result in disqualification. Aid station cutoffs will be enforced. Headphones are discouraged. While no specific gear is required, runners are highly recommended to carry a cell phone, at least 1 liter of fluids, extra layers, and an emergency blanket. Mountain weather can change quickly.

Aid stations are stocked with sweet and savory food options, GU products, and water. The Summit aid station serves pancakes. The event is cup-less; runners must carry their own bottles or collapsible cups.

Logistics

Bib pickup is at the Village at Mammoth Plaza at designated times from Thursday through Sunday. Race briefings are held there on Thursday evening. Race starts are organized in waves based on estimated finish times. Pacers are not allowed. Crews are allowed only at designated aid stations listed on the race pages.

Drop bag service is available for the Dragon's Back Ascent, 50K, and 26K. A free shuttle service operates between the Village and Main Lodge throughout the weekend. Free event parking is available at Canyon Lodge, Eagle Lodge, and Main Lodge during the races. Paid parking is available near the Village.

Gondola access is available to the summit and aid stations at a subsidized event rate. Event shuttles will transport runners to the Dragon's Back Ascent start.

Awards and Sustainability

Professional chip timing is used. Overall and age-group awards are given. The top five overall female and male finishers in the 50K, 26K, and Dragon's Back Ascent receive cash prizes. Age group awards are given in 10-year increments.

The event has a focus on sustainability. It is a cup-less race and aims to eliminate single-use plastics. A Terracycle program collects sports nutrition wrappers for upcycling. Participants are encouraged to carpool and follow Leave No Trace principles. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Tenkay
Woolly's 1k
Dragon’s Back Ascent
Mammoth 26k
Mammoth 50k
Mammoth Triple