Headwaters Trail Runs

Headwaters Trail Runs

Headwaters Trail Runs comprise three trail races held in the Klamath Mountains west of Mount Shasta City, California, named for the headwaters of the Sacramento River. Distances offered include:

• 52k
• 34k
• 10k

The 52k and 34k are mountainous loop courses run entirely on single-track trails and dirt forest roads, and both include miles on the Sisson-Callahan National Recreation Trail. The 52k has roughly 8,000 feet of total elevation gain and the 34k about 4,000 feet. The 10k follows the Lake Siskiyou Trail along the forested shore of Lake Siskiyou, with about 400 feet of total gain; the surface is about 99% dirt with a short paved section across the Box Canyon Dam.

Races take place beneath the nearby peaks of Mt. Shasta and Mt. Eddy. Courses feature rugged mountain terrain, fully stocked aid stations, and a volunteer race staff. All participants receive a post-race meal prepared by a local chef, a commemorative race t-shirt, and a finisher's medal.

The event is cupless; runners must carry a personal drinking system for use at aid stations. Organizers aim to reduce event waste and encourage reusable plates, utensils, and cups for the post-race meal. A portion of proceeds is donated annually to the Mt. Shasta High School cross-country team. The event operates as a project of a 501(c)(3) organization and under special use permits with local land managers. The races acknowledge occurrence on traditional homelands of several Indigenous nations. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.