Race for Open Space
About this race
Big Sur Land Trust's 2026 Race for Open Space is a one-day trail running event dedicated to fostering an appreciation of natural spaces in Monterey County and celebrating the health benefits of time spent in nature. This annual event invites runners and hikers of all ages to find wonder among Monterey County’s most iconic landscapes. This time of year will provide participants with sweeping views of green ridge lines punctuated by colorful wildflowers.
Centered around Palo Corona Regional Park, participants are invited to choose their adventure by registering for a 5K, 12K, 25K, or 35K+ trail run. Each course promises a spectacular journey through sections of the Palo Corona Backcountry, normally closed to the public. A one-mile Fun-Run will be offered for individuals of all ages and abilities.
Race for Open Space’s technical partner, Inside Trail Running, will oversee the start/finish line, trail-marking, aid stations, and participant timing/results. All activities will be offered in compliance with public health and safety guidelines. Our community is deeply passionate about our mission to inspire love of land across generations, conservation of our unique Monterey County landscapes, and access to outdoor experiences for all.
On the day of the event, community partners and businesses such as Alvarado Street Brewery will help participants celebrate crossing the finish line with beer, food, and interactive tabling displays.
Join fellow runners on April 1, 2023 for the Race for Open Space. It's a fantastic 3.9K, 6.4K, 13.7K, 14.5K, 5K, 12.9K, 19.3K, 3.2K, 15.3K, 33.8K featuring a flat and fast course in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Pick your distance
Running
Glen Deven Ranch (2.4mi)
Enjoy a scenic ridgeline run or hike looking out over the Big Sur coastline.
Glen Deven Ranch (4mi)
Enjoy a scenic ridgeline run or hike looking out over the Big Sur coastline.
Mitteldorf Preserve (4mi)
A longer, steeper option through a redwood canyon and across the Garrapata Creek.
Mitteldorf Preserve (8.5mi)
A longer, steeper option among redwoods with sweeping views well worth the effort.
Palo Corona to South Bank Trail (2mi) - Fun Run
A shorter, low-elevation course geared towards kids, families, and people who want an easier or paved option during the live Adventure Course events.
Trail running
Guided Hike: Palo Corona to San Jose Creek Trail (9mi)
A limited-capacity, moderately-strenuous guided hike through a redwood canyon and across a creek.
Guided Hike: Marks Ranch (3.4mi/5K)
A moderate to strenuous guided route that offers panoramic views of the Salinas Valley. Run and hike options will be offered.
Guided Hike: Williams Canyon to San Jose Creek Trail (8mi)
A limited-capacity, moderate guided hike highlighting the San Jose Creek watershed from inland meadows and redwood forests to the coast.
Guided Hike: Mitteldorf Preserve to Joshua Creek (10.5mi)
A limited-capacity, strenuous guided hike highlighting connected conserved lands, featuring redwoods, madrones, and more.
Guided Hike: Marks Ranch Wildflowers (2mi)
An easy, mostly flat, guided out-and-back route with a focus on springtime wildflowers found at Marks Ranch.
Guided Hike: Arroyo Seco (8.5mi)
A limited-capacity, strenuous guided hike through the rolling Arroyo Seco hills, with climbs rewarded by spectacular vistas.
Williams Canyon to Palo Corona (8.5mi)
This is the second half of the Palo Corona to Mitteldorf Preserve course, made accessible for hikers and for runners requiring a shorter distance.
Palo Corona to San Jose Creek Trail (9.5mi)
A beautiful trip through a redwood canyon and across a creek.
Palo Corona to Mitteldorf Preserve (21mi) - Runners Only Except By Prior Approval
Not for the faint-of-heart, this course is a true trail adventure.
About Carmel-By-The-Sea
Race for Open Space takes place in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California, United States. The local timezone is America/Los_Angeles.
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Race information has been sourced from the event's official website and other publicly available resources. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official website directly. If you notice any incorrect or missing information, don't hesitate to reach out to us by email.
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