Ruth McKenzie Preserve Half Marathon | 10k | 5k | Kids Race

🏞️ Welcome to the Ruth McKenzie Preserve

The Ruth McKenzie Table Mountain Preserve (2960 acres) is located between Friant and Prather, on the north side of Auberry Road. The main gate is 3.3 miles uphill from the intersection of Auberry Road and Millerton Road.

🌳 Our History

The McKenzie Preserve was acquired in trust from The Nature Conservancy in 1998. The property had previously been placed in a trust by its owner, Ruth Bea McKenzie, who wanted it to remain in ranching and open space after her death.

🌼 Flora and Fauna

• Habitat: The McKenzie Preserve is primarily grassland and oak woodland that slopes upward toward the basalt lava table lands that give the preserve its name.
• Vernal Pools: In spring, rain water collects in the table’s low spots, forming vernal pools.
• Rare Species: These pools provide habitat for rare plants and crustaceans that “come to life” in the presence of the water.
• Survival Mechanism: When the pools dry up in late spring, these crustaceans become seeds or cysts to survive the rest of the year.

🏔️ Geography and Landscape

On the far side of the table formations, out of sight of Auberry Road, the land slopes steeply down to the San Joaquin River. These north-facing slopes sustain an excellent mix of pine forest and chaparral. The preserve also includes a 47-acre parcel along the creek on the south side.

📅 Event Details

Join us for the Ruth McKenzie Preserve Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and Kids Race on April 12, 2026.

For more information and to register, visit: Race Registration.