Race For Open Space

Race for Open Space

The Race for Open Space is a trail running event held at Palo Corona Regional Park in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California. The event is centered on appreciating natural spaces and provides access to sections of the Palo Corona Backcountry that are typically closed to the public. Participants traverse landscapes consisting of green ridge lines, wildflowers, coastal oak groves, and grassy meadows.

Participants can choose from several distinct distances:

• 1 Mile: A course for all ages and abilities, focused on families.
• 5K: A lollipop loop on wide trails with minimal elevation gain.
• 12K: An out-and-back route past Inspiration Point to the Whisler Wilson Overlook.
• 25K: A trail race through the backcountry featuring creek crossings and redwood groves.
• 35K+: An journey through the Mitteldorf Preserve with over 5,300 feet of total ascent.

The courses vary in difficulty and terrain. The 5K route uses non-technical trails, while the 25K involves substantial elevation changes. The longest distance, the 35K+, is restricted to runners only and spans multiple ecosystems.

The event is organized in partnership with Inside Trail Running, which manages trail marking, aid stations, and timing. Following the activities, community partners provide food and refreshments such as beer from Alvarado Street Brewery at the finish area. All routes are located within Monterey County and highlight the diverse regional landscapes. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.