Saddleback Marathon

The Saddleback Marathon : Silverado, CA

The Saddleback Marathon is a trail running event held in Silverado, California, in the Trabuco District of the Cleveland National Forest. The race was re-routed to Black Star Canyon after Blue Jay campgrounds remained closed following the Airport Fire. Multiple distances are offered on shared and diverging trail sections.

The full marathon starts on Black Star Canyon Road and follows a creek into the canyon on a relatively flat truck trail for about 2.5 miles. At the Falls turnoff runners turn left and climb several switchbacks into the Mariposa Reserve, then continue up to the Doppler on North Main Divide. From there the route returns along Black Star and proceeds to Skyline Drive into Corona before returning to the finish. Total elevation gain for the marathon is 4,244 feet.

Other distances follow much of the same initial route with different turnarounds and gains:

• Marathon - Full Black Star Canyon to Skyline Drive into Corona. Elevation gain 4,244'.
• 25k - New distance. To the Doppler and back. Elevation gain 2,517'.
• Half Marathon - Up Black Star Canyon Road past the historic Indian village and return. Elevation gain 1,773'.
• 10K - Out-and-back with a few switchbacks. Elevation gain 706'.

Aid stations are provided at approximate mile points along the courses. The event enforces course cut-offs. No refunds are allowed; entries may be applied to the following year if the race is canceled for specified reasons. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.