Race For Open Space

Event

The Race for Open Space takes place on May 9, 2026 in Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA. It is a one-day trail running fundraiser and awareness event organized to support Big Sur Land Trust and access to parks and open space in Monterey County. Distances offered include:

• 1 mile Fun Run - Palo Corona to Southbank Trail (price $20, 60 spots remaining)
• 5k Front Ranch Lollipop (price $40, 80 spots remaining)
• 12k Whisler Wilson Overlook out-and-back (price $60, 120 spots remaining)
• 25k Williams Canyon out-and-back (price $80, 80 spots remaining)
• 35k+ Lunch Bench Lollipop (price $100, 60 spots remaining)

Registration opens December 1, 2025. Total event capacity is 400 (individual caps listed above).

Course and logistics

The courses are centered on Palo Corona Regional Park; the 35k+ course also includes sections of Mitteldorf Preserve. Routes are largely on non-technical fire roads; the 25k and 35k+ include multiple creek crossings. Hiking or trekking poles are allowed. Courses are marked with colored surveyor ribbon placed about every 200 meters; blue ribbons indicate wrong-way trails. Aid stations provide a variety of foods and drinks and basic first aid supplies. Timing is chip timed using MyLaps and Race Director with disposable chips attached to bibs. Parking is free in the Community Church of the Monterey Peninsula lot at 4590 Carmel Valley Rd. Dogs are permitted only in the 1-mile Fun Run and must be on-leash. The event does not award race medals. Registration is non-refundable and non-transferable; a 7.5-hour time limit applies to the 35k+ course. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.