Mount Madonna Challenge
Gilroy, United States • 8 Aug 2026
Mt. Madonna Challenge
The Mt. Madonna Challenge is a trail running event in the Santa Cruz Mountains that takes place at the Sprig Day Use Area on Blackhawk Canyon Road in Gilroy, California. Participants run among redwood trees and ascend peaks that offer views of Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Sand Benito County. Parking is free but very limited; carpooling is strongly encouraged.
The event offers multiple trail distances with substantial elevation gain:
- 5K: 843 feet of elevation gain. Steep trail.
- 10K: 1,532 feet of elevation gain. Very steep terrain.
- Half marathon: 2,828 feet of elevation gain. Extremely steep course.
The race is organized by a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and supports the Mt. Madonna Scholarships. Race fees fund scholarships that have sent local student-athletes to the Max King Trail Running Camp since 2022. Past camp locations mentioned include Mt. Shasta, Donner Pass in Truckee, the Redwood National Forest, and Sisters, Oregon.
The event includes Beer Runs and course preview runs. Volunteers of all ages and abilities are invited to help with tasks such as setup, parking, check-in, aid stations, course marshaling, post-race food, and clean-up. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.