Saddleback Marathon

The Saddleback Marathon in Black Star Canyon

The Saddleback Marathon takes place in Silverado, CA within the Trabuco District of the Cleveland National Forest. Blue Jay campgrounds remain closed after the Airport fire, so the event is routed out of Black Star Canyon for 2026.

Distances offered include:

• Marathon: out of Black Star Canyon; elevation gain 4,244 feet.
• 25k: follows marathon route to Doppler then returns; new distance.
• Half Marathon: starts same; up Black Star 1.5 miles past Indian village; gain 1,773 ft.
• 10K: begins same route; includes switchbacks; gain 706 feet.

The marathon begins on Black Star Canyon Road and follows a creek on a relatively flat truck trail for about 2.5 miles, then climbs switchbacks into the Mariposa Reserve up to the Doppler on North Main Divide. Marathon runners continue toward Skyline Drive into Corona and return the same way. The 25k uses the marathon route to the Doppler then reverses course. The half follows the canyon and switchbacks, extends past a historic Indian village, and returns. The 10K follows the initial canyon section then turns around.

Aid stations are placed approximately at 3.1, 6.6, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5 and 13.1 miles, with the 3.1 mile point serving as the 10K turnaround and the 13.1 mile point as the marathon turnaround. The course includes cutoffs at Skyline Bottom and at the Doppler Ball. Registration closes November 5, 2026. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.