Sunset & Cider Trail Races

Sunset & Cider Trail Races : Auburn, California, October 2026

The Sunset & Cider Trail Races take place in Auburn, California, with courses routed around the American River Canyon. The event offers multiple distances over mostly single track trails with short neighborhood road sections and notable elevation gain on each course.

Distances

• 50K with 3760 feet of total climbing
• 13.1 mile half marathon with 1890 feet of total climbing
• 5 mile out and back with 704 feet of total climbing

The 50K uses two out and back segments along smooth sections of the American River and is largely runnable. Aid stations for the 50K are located at miles 3.8, 10.5, 17.0, 20.9, and 25.6, and offer water, sports drink, light snacks, and fruit. The half marathon also uses two out and back loops, is mainly single track, and has aid stations at miles 3.8, 4.8, and 8.7 with similar offerings. The five mile course follows the first five miles of the half marathon; there are no aid stations on this route and walkers are welcome. Time limits are set to accommodate available light; the 50K and half marathon correspond to minimum paces provided by the organizer.

Awards and event items include a commemorative 16 ounce cider glass for all participants, at least one complimentary Ponderosa Cider pour for those 21 and older, and BOCO trail running hats for the first 200 registrants. Age group awards are given in 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60 plus categories. The event also supports a Unity Initiative that works with local nonprofit partners and includes matched donations and future race discounts for donors. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.