Run With The Burros

Run With The Burros

Run With The Burros is a pack burro race and trail run held each year on the second Saturday of April in the Mojave Desert near Ridgecrest, California. The event offers four course options and runs on a mix of public and private land. It serves as a fundraiser for California Breakfast Burritos and Forever Home Donkey Rescue & Sanctuary, both volunteer charitable organizations.

Distances include:

• 26.2 miles trail marathon
• 18 miles
• 10 miles
• 5 miles introductory distance

All distances are open to runner-and-burro teams and to runners without burros in separate categories. Competitive burro teams must use a packsaddle carrying a pick, gold pan, and shovel; the 5- and 10-mile burro entries may run non-competitively without a packsaddle but are not eligible for prizes. Teams use a halter and a lead rope no longer than 15 feet; if the lead rope is dropped the team must return to the drop point. A 9-hour cutoff applies to all distances; downgrades at splits are allowed.

Course support includes five aid stations with water, electrolytes, and snacks; cups are not provided. Burros may drink from buckets supplied at stations. Children under 12 must be accompanied by a responsible adult on course. Dogs must be leashed and kept clear of burros. The terrain and desert weather vary in spring, and the organizers provide guidance on hydration and basic gear. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.