Sunset & Cider Trail Races

Sunset & Cider Trail Races

The Sunset & Cider Trail Races take place on October 10, 2026, in Auburn, California, with start and finish at Ponderosa Cider Co near Auburn Overlook Park. Courses follow the American River Canyon rim and include long stretches of single track and short neighborhood road sections.

Distances offered:

• 50K: two out-and-back segments along the river, mostly single track, 3,875 ft climbing.
• Half Marathon (13.1M): two lollipop loops, mostly single track, 1,920 ft climbing.
• 5 Miler: out-and-back, mostly single track, 700 ft climbing, walkers permitted.

There are four aid stations on the full course. The 5 Miler has no aid stations. The half marathon uses aid stations two and three. The 50K utilizes all four aid stations. All staffed stations provide water, hydration mix, and light food.

All participants receive a race T-shirt, a commemorative cider glass, and two free cider pours. Top finishers receive a custom wood plaque or standing award. The 50K qualifies for the Sierra Ultra Trifecta.

The Unity Initiative offers matched donations to selected nonprofit partners. Donations made in 2025 and prior to the event date may be eligible for matching up to $40 or 25% of registration. Selected partners include Placer Food Bank, Sacramento Food Bank, CASA of Sacramento, CASA of Placer County, AcademySTAY, Sierra Club of California, Placer Land Trust, and the ACLU. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.