Big Sur Marathon

Big Sur Land Trust's 2026 Race for Open Space is a one-day trail running event dedicated to fostering an appreciation of natural spaces in Monterey County and celebrating the health benefits of time spent in nature. This annual event invites runners and hikers of all ages to find wonder among Monterey County’s most iconic landscapes. This time of year will provide participants with sweeping views of green ridge lines punctuated by colorful wildflowers.

Centered around Palo Corona Regional Park, participants are invited to choose their adventure by registering for a 5K, 12K, 25K, or 35K+ trail run. Each course promises a spectacular journey through sections of the Palo Corona Backcountry, normally closed to the public. A one-mile Fun-Run will be offered for individuals of all ages and abilities.

Race for Open Space’s technical partner, Inside Trail Running, will oversee the start/finish line, trail-marking, aid stations, and participant timing/results. All activities will be offered in compliance with public health and safety guidelines. Our community is deeply passionate about our mission to inspire love of land across generations, conservation of our unique Monterey County landscapes, and access to outdoor experiences for all.

On the day of the event, community partners and businesses such as Alvarado Street Brewery will help participants celebrate crossing the finish line with beer, food, and interactive tabling displays.

Celebrate what makes running unforgettable — the high-fives, the endorphins, the friendships, and the finish-line feels.

Join Fleet Feet for The Big Run, our high-energy 3.1-mile party in honor of Global Running Day!

On June 6th, runners and walkers of all levels are invited to set a goal, challenge themselves, and cross the finish line in celebration of the sport we love and the incredible community that makes it special. Whether you’re chasing a PR or soaking up the vibes, this breezy 5K is all about coming together and having fun.

Military & Student-Athlete Discounts Available: We’re proud to offer special pricing for military members and student-athletes. To receive your exclusive discount code, email Amber Melville at amber.melville@fleetfeet.com.

Let’s lace up, show up, and make it a day worth celebrating.

Packet Pick Up:

We are offering registration race morning!

Friday, June 5th

11:00 am - 6:00 pm | Fleet Feet Monterey

Saturday, June 6th

7:30 am - 8:15 am

You are more than welcome to pick up your friends and family bibs. We highly recommend picking up your packets the day before the race for an easy and efficient morning.

Age Group Prizes:

We will announce our Age Group Prizes at the store after the race.

Race Shirt:

If you purchased a race shirt you are guaranteed your shirt. You will be able to pick it up at any of the packet pick up dates above OR race morning! If you did not purchase a race shirt, you are not guaranteed a shirt.

Location:

Monterey Rec Trail: The starting line will be right next to the Monterey Beach Station. Parking will right next to the course.

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Big Sur River Run is a benefit race for two important Big Sur community organizations, Big Sur Health Center and Big Sur Fire. There are two races, a 10k and 5k. Both courses are all flat, black-top road loops alongside Big Sur River, through Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park's redwood and oak grove campgrounds. The 10k is a certified course. The 5k is a Family Fun Run or Walk. No Bicycles, dogs, strollers, skates, wagons, or other wheeled conveyances (other than wheelchairs) are permitted. Prizes for 10K Race winners and top finishers.

Since 1981 two of Big Sur’s most vital institutions have been supported by the generosity of those who love to run. Most who visit Big Sur revel in the remoteness without taking in the impact it has on emergency services. The local Volunteer Fire Department, Big Sur Fire, and the Big Sur Health Center both rely on donations to provide support for visitors and residents alike. The run’s beneficiaries, Big Sur Fire and the Big Sur Health Center, have never done more to serve and support our community than in recent years. These critical emergency services need our support more than ever and we encourage you to donate to each organization directly. To date over 30,000 runners have joined the cause, supporting these institutions, and basking in the beauty of Big Sur. Will you join us this year?