Mendocino Running Festival
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Event Overview
The Mendocino Running Festival is a weekend event taking place in Mendocino Woodlands Park, a National Historic Landmark, near Mendocino, California. The event is held at a private group camping venue, described as a secluded camp in an ancient redwood forest.
Races and Course
The event features four race formats: a 12-hour timed run, a 6-hour timed run, a half marathon, and a 10k. All races use the same looped course. The course is a 6-mile loop of mostly single-track trail, starting in the Big River valley and climbing to the valley's edge, with 875 feet of elevation gain per loop. The route passes through ancient redwoods and includes log bridge crossings and streams. There are two aid stations on the course.
Festival and Accommodations
The event is structured as a full weekend festival. Race registration for day participants includes a post-race lunch. For weekend attendees, various camping options are available for an additional fee, including access to tent cabins, space for camper vehicles or tents, hot showers, and parking. The festival includes live music, yoga sessions, a "Dino Dash & Race the Rex" event described as a beer mile, and a "Smores and More" event by a fire pit.
Food and Amenities
A separate "Weekend Food Pass" can be purchased, which covers meals from Friday's pre-race pasta dinner through Sunday breakfast. The camp has a communal kitchen and eating area called "The Commons." Meals are described as focusing on fresh, local ingredients with vegetarian and vegan options. For day racers, a hearty lunch is included with registration.
Location and Policies
The event address is 39350 Little Lake Rd, Mendocino, CA. Mendocino Woodlands State Park has a strict no-dog policy, with an exception only for licensed service dogs with prior written approval. Entry fees for races are non-refundable and non-transferable, though deferrals to the following year are possible outside of 30 days before the event. Camping and food pass fees are non-refundable. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
