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 May 10, 2025 for the Race for Open Space. It's a fantastic 1.6K, 5K, 12K, 25K, 35K featuring a flat and fast course in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Pick your distance
Running
Palo Corona to Southbank Trail - Fun Run (1mi)
A shorter, low-elevation course geared towards kids, families, and people who want an easier or paved option.
Palo Corona Front-ranch Lollipop (5k)
A gorgeous lollipop loop with minimal elevation gain through Palo Corona's front-ranch, featuring coastal oak groves, grassy meadows, and wide, non-technical trails.
Palo Corona to Whisler Wilson Overlook - Out & Back (12k)
A beautiful climb past Inspiration Point and up to an overlook with stunning views of the Palo Corona Backcountry and the Monterey Peninsula.
Trail running
Palo Corona to Williams Canyon - Out & Back (25k)
A lovely out-and-back route in the Palo Corona Backcountry with substantial elevation change, featuring creek crossings, redwood groves and stunning vistas.
The Lunch Bench Lollipop (35k+)
An epic journey through the Palo Corona Backcountry and the Mitteldorf Preserve, spanning multiple ecosystems, vigorous elevation gain, and an unparalleled view of Monterey County. PLEASE NOTE: This is a very challenging course, with over 5300’ of total ascent (4400’ of ascent in the first 14 miles), open to runners only.
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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