Darrington Single Track Trail Challenge
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Darrington Head Trail Run
The event takes place at the Darrington Trail Head in the Folsom Lake area near Pilot Hill, California. It offers multiple trail distances on mostly dirt and rocky single-track with minimal pavement and rolling hills that include frequent ups and downs and lake vistas.
Race distances:
- 5K
- 10K
- 18 Mile
- 36 Mile (Ultra)
Course details note stony dirt paths and marked routes using pink ribbons, signs on short wooden stakes, and white gypsum marks on the ground. Ascent totals are published per distance: 5K ~449 ft, 10K ~803 ft, 18M ~2,342 ft, 36M ~4,511 ft. The Start/Finish is at Darrington Trail Head. Toilets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Plenty of parking is available; a day-use fee applies and carpooling is encouraged.
Aid and support information: two fully stocked aid stations operate on the course, with a primary aid station at the Start/Finish and an additional aid station at the Peninsula Campground around mile 9 and mile 27. Aid stations remain open until the last runner arrives; runners who miss cutoffs may be transported back to the start. Drop bag service is available the morning of the race for the longer distances. Support crews may assist runners at the Start/Finish and at the Peninsula Campground location.
All finishers receive a commemorative medal. Volunteer photographers will capture event photos to be posted online. Race shirts may be offered during registration or at the event while supplies last. A 10 hour overall time limit applies to the event. Runners are advised to carry lights at the start and possibly for the finish if still on course after dark.
Additional practical notes include bib color assignments by distance and course-following instructions using the pink ribbons. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
