Muir Woods Mountain Challenge

Event Overview

The Muir Woods Mountain Challenge is a trail running event offering three distances: a 10K, a half marathon, and a 30K. It takes place at Mount Tamalpais State Park in Stinson Beach, California.

Course Details

The course begins with a climb of 2,000 feet in just over two miles up Willow Camp hill. Runners then travel along the Coastal Trail with views of Stinson Beach and the Pacific Ocean. The route uses the Matt Davis Trail, where the 10K distance finishes. The half marathon and 30K routes continue back up Mount Tamalpais via the Dipsea Trail, pass through Muir Woods, reach the Cardiac Hill summit, and descend back to Stinson Beach on the Dipsea Trail. The course consists primarily of technical dirt trails and fire roads, featuring long hills, rocky descents, steps, and many twists and turns. Hiking or trekking poles are permitted.

Logistics and Amenities

The event has a total capacity of 300 runners across all distances. Early bib pickup is available the day before the race at a specific running store in Mill Valley, with race morning pickup at the Stinson Beach North Parking Lot. Parking within the Stinson Beach Day Use Area is free. The race is a professionally chip-timed, cupless event, meaning runners must carry their own water bottle or reusable cup. Reusable cups are available for purchase. Aid stations provide various foods and beverages, including Gu Energy products, trail mix, sandwiches, Coke, water, and Skratch Hydration Mix. A time limit of 6.5 hours applies for the half marathon and 30K distances.

Awards and Recognition

The top three overall male and female finishers for each distance receive a custom trophy. All finishers get a custom medal. Age-group medals are awarded three deep for various categories. There is also a custom award for the Dead Last Finisher in each event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.