Fort Bragg Whale Run and Walk

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Fort Bragg Coast Trail -- South Entrance Noyo Headlands Park, Fort Bragg CA

Saturday, March 21st, 2026

The 38th Annual Whale Run & Walk for 2026

Fort Bragg, Ca is a small, picturesque city on the Pacific Ocean, nestled between sandy beaches and the redwood forest. We are the home of the world famous Glass Beach! Every year there is a huge Whale Festival on the 3rd weekend of March, and Saturday morning the Whale Run kicks it off! After the Whale Run, there are events all over town, including a craft fair: guided whale viewing: clam chowder, beer and wine tasting, entertainment, and music everywhere. See the www.whalerun.org for more information and interesting facts about whales.

Event Details

History: The local Soroptimist clubs have been holding this race for 38 years.
Participants: Up to 800 runners participate on a beautiful day on the Mendocino Coast.
Scenery: All runners, walkers, and spectators will enjoy breathtaking whitewater ocean views.
New Course: The starting line is at Noyo Headlands Park on the Coastal Trail in Fort Bragg, CA.

Race Events

Here are the events you can sign up for:

5k: Runners will run north and turn around at or near Compass Rose.
5k Fun Walk: Walkers will follow the 5k runner's route.
10k: Runners dash north past Glass Beach then cross the beautiful Pudding Creek Trestle to the 10K turn around (10K map).
1/2 Marathon: Same route as 10k but the turnaround is at MacKerricher State Park.
Kiddie Run: 400 meter run in 3 age groups (U5, U7, and U10).

Additional Information

Age Divisions: There are multiple race age divisions.
Discounts: Under 16 run/walkers may enter any race division for a discounted rate at signup.
Dogs: Dogs are welcome on the trails before and after the race (on leash).
Dog Parks: There's a dog park by the swim center on Lincoln and Maple, and a dog beach at the end of north harbor drive.