Paseo de Mariposa Trail Race

🏞️ Paseo de Mariposa Trail Race

📅 April 19, 2026 – Mariposa, California

👤 A Note from the Race Director

Hello everyone! My name is Nate Moore, and I’m excited to share that I’ll be directing the 2026 Paseo de Mariposa Trail Race through my company, San Joaquin Running Co.

• Community Focus: We love supporting local community events, especially those that celebrate trail running and the unique beauty of our region.
• Tradition: Our goal is to carry forward the traditions that make this race special, while adding the same energy and care we bring to our other events.
• Event Variety: Through San Joaquin Running, I help organize a variety of races across the Central Valley and Sierra foothills.
• Memorable Experiences: Each event is built on the same foundation: creating tough, fun, and memorable experiences for runners of all ages and abilities.

🌲 About the Event

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, just outside Yosemite National Park, Mariposa is rich in history and natural beauty — the perfect setting for outdoor adventure.

• Date: Join us for the seventh annual Paseo de Mariposa Trail Run on Sunday, April 19, 2026.
• Courses: Featuring 5K and 12K courses that begin at the historic Mariposa Courthouse (built in 1851, the oldest courthouse west of the Rockies still in use).
• Family-Friendly: This community event celebrates health, wellness, and active lifestyles.
• Youth Participation: In support of our mission to engage youth in outdoor activity, all children under 18 can participate in any race for free.

🏃‍♂️ Race Distances

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 5K – Family-Friendly & Beginner-Friendly

• Accessibility: Shortest and most accessible option.
• Course Start: Starts at the courthouse, with sections on paved roads, a short climb past the high school, and a dirt fire road turnaround.
• Perfect For: Ideal for families, walkers, and those new to trail running.

🌄 12K – The Big Adventure

• Challenge: Longest and most challenging route.
• Features: Includes steep descents, a creek crossing, and a tough single-track climb to Slaughterhouse Road and the Flume Trail.
• Views: Stunning views along rugged single-track with significant elevation gain.
• Restrictions: No strollers permitted: youth under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

🛡️ Safety & Support

• Aid Stations: Aid stations will be positioned across all distances.
• On-Site Support: Mariposa County Search and Rescue will be on site for runner safety.
• Technical Terrain: Please run or hike your route ahead of time if possible. Bringing a buddy is always recommended.
• Dog Policy: For everyone’s safety: no dogs are permitted on any route.

🎉 Why Join?

The Paseo de Mariposa is more than a race — it’s a celebration of community, family, and the outdoors. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, enjoying a scenic hike with friends, or introducing your kids to trail running, this event is designed for all ages and abilities.

📅 ✨ Mark your calendars for April 19, 2026!

We can’t wait to see you in Mariposa for an unforgettable day on the trails. Visit the race page for more information.