Santa Barbara Trail Work Series presented by Runners for Public Lands and the Los Padres Forest Association

Runners for Public Lands (RPL) envisions a world in which everyone has access to healthy, runnable landscapes. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that empowers runners to protect public lands and expand access to nature for all. 

We are excited to partner with the Santa Barbara Foundation, Los Padres Forest Association, the Santa Barbara Trail League, and the United States Forest Service (USFS), to present the 2026 Trail Work Series in Santa Barbara County. This brings our local community of runners together to learn about and care for the living landscapes we run with. Through repetitive, hands-on service events, we can grow ecological values and create strong connections that inspire runners to care for the places they love. 

The 2026 Santa Barbara Trail Work Series will include 4 independent trail work events. Each event will be approved, permitted, and insured by the USFS, led by the Los Padres Forest Association trail work leaders, and managed by Runners for Public Lands  Ambassadors.  Attend multiple events and win prizes from our brand coalition sponsors, including Athletic Brewing, GU, Fractel, On, Altra, as well as local partners and Runners for Public Lands.

Registration opens on February 7 th for the first event of the season, which will be held on Saturday, March 7th. Later events will be held in April and May. Please note that the days and times of all events are subject to change based on the discretion of the USFS, current conditions, and weather. We will keep everyone informed through the Runners for Public Lands Ventura/Santa Barbara Strava Club and direct emails to registrants. 

The Santa Barbara Trail Work Series presented by Runners for Public Lands and the Los Padres Forest Association brings an exciting race distance to Santa Barbara, California on March 7, 2026. Don't miss this beautiful event!