Races We Love
We select these races to help ground our training. They serve as clear guideposts throughout the year, shaping how we structure blocks, progress volume and intensity, and prepare for specific demands. The events listed here align well with local terrain and support steady development across a wide range of distances.
Some races function as anchor goals, while others work better as tune-ups or long training efforts. Participation is always optional. What matters is that these events provide shared reference points, support purposeful preparation, and create opportunities to show up for one another on race day.
Lake Sonoma Trail Races
April (annually)
Distances: 50K, 100K, 50 Mile, Trail Sisters Half Marathon
A long-standing spring race weekend in Sonoma County featuring courses defined by sustained climbs and runnable fire roads. The terrain rewards steady pacing and disciplined effort rather than technical finesse alone.
The 100K serves as a Western States qualifier and attracts a deep field, while the 50K and 50 Mile are common targets for runners stepping into longer distances. The Trail Sisters Half Marathon offers a shorter option while maintaining the same organizational quality and course standards.
Annadel Trail Races
Spring (annually)
Distances: Half Marathon, 10K, 5K
Hosted in Annadel State Park, this race highlights the technical singletrack and rolling terrain many local runners train on regularly. Courses feature short climbs, rocky sections, and fast descents that demand attention and efficient movement.
With multiple distances available, Annadel works well as both an introduction to trail racing and an early-season effort for experienced runners looking to sharpen fitness on familiar ground.
Cool Moon Trail Races
Early Summer (annually)
Distances: 5K, 11.5M, 13.5M, 25M, 50M, 100K, 100M
A multi-distance trail race offering options from short trail efforts to full ultramarathons. The looped course format allows runners to manage pacing and logistics while still facing a demanding profile.
Cool Moon is often used as a progression race, supporting athletes building toward longer summer or fall objectives. Strong aid stations and clear organization make it a reliable choice across experience levels.
Inside Trail
Various dates throughout the year
Distances: Varies by event
Inside Trail produces a range of trail races across Northern California, typically emphasizing rugged terrain, technical trails, and challenging elevation profiles. Their events appeal to runners who enjoy courses that require sustained focus and adaptability.
With distances spanning from shorter trail races to ultras, the series offers options that fit many training cycles and experience levels while maintaining a consistent, no-frills race atmosphere.
Mendocino Running Festival
Late Summer / Early Fall (annually)
Distances: 6-Hour, 12-Hour, 10K, Half Marathon
A weekend-long trail running festival held in Mendocino Woodlands Park, a National Historic Landmark set within an ancient redwood forest. The private group camping format creates a focused environment that emphasizes community and shared experience.
The race uses a 6-mile looped course with roughly 875 feet of climbing per loop, primarily on singletrack through redwoods, stream crossings, and rolling terrain. Timed and fixed-distance options make it well-suited for both extended time on feet and shorter trail efforts.
Sonoma Fall Classic
Fall (annually)
Distances: 100 Mile, 50 Mile, Marathon, Relay
Held at Lake Sonoma during harvest season, the Sonoma Fall Classic builds on the legacy of the original Lake Sonoma 50 Mile while expanding the weekend to include a 100 miler, trail marathon, and relay options. The course is defined by sustained climbs, long stretches of singletrack, and exposed ridgelines with sweeping views of the lake.
Now partnered with Aravaipa Running, the event combines a demanding, old-school course with a polished race experience. Free camping and a festival-style atmosphere make it a strong late-season option for runners seeking a serious challenge with strong support.
Rio Del Lago
Late Fall (annually)
Distances: 100 Mile, 50K
Held in the foothills surrounding Folsom Lake, Rio Del Lago is a well-established late-season event best known for its 100-mile race. The course links sections of the American River and Way Too Cool 50K trails, featuring long, runnable stretches of singletrack and rolling terrain with relatively modest elevation gain.
While a 50K option is offered, Rio Del Lago is primarily regarded as a 100-mile race. It rewards pacing discipline, durability, and consistency rather than technical trail skills, making it a natural anchor for fall training cycles and a cornerstone event for many Northern California ultrarunners.
Community Partners
Ascend is supported by local businesses and practitioners who understand the demands of trail running and long-term training. These partners play an important role in keeping runners healthy, properly equipped, and connected to the broader running community. Each brings expertise that complements our training philosophy and helps athletes stay consistent over time.
Healdsburg Running Company
Healdsburg Running Company (HRC) is more than just a running shop, it’s a hub for the trail running community in Sonoma County. Whether you’re a beginner exploring the trails or an experienced ultrarunner, HRC offers invaluable resources and support.
- Trail Running Focus: Deeply rooted in the trail running culture, HRC is a perfect match for our training programs and community-building goals.
- Expert Gear Advice: Get outfitted with the perfect shoes, apparel, and gear for any terrain.
- Community Runs: Join inclusive, welcoming group runs exploring Sonoma County’s beautiful trails.
Learn more about Healdsburg Running Company (HRC)
Motion Sports Chiropractic
Motion Sports Chiropractic, led by Dr. Carole Yoshiwara, provides sports-focused chiropractic care grounded in movement quality and long-term performance. Treatment emphasizes hands-on care, corrective exercise, and practical strategies runners can use to stay healthy through high training loads and demanding terrain.
Learn more about Motion Sports Chiropractic
Ryan Moberly Physiotherapy
Ryan Moberly Physiotherapy provides performance-based care with a focus on runners and endurance athletes. Ryan’s approach centers on identifying root causes of pain, improving movement efficiency, and building strength that supports long-term consistency. He regularly works with runners managing training load, recurring injuries, or return-to-run transitions.
Learn more about MOWBS Physiotherapy
Ascend Trail Running 