2 swimming events in Fort Bragg, California

The 38th Annual Whale Run & Walk for 2026!

Fort Bragg, Ca is a small, picturesque city on the Pacific Ocean, nestled between sandy beaches and the redwood forest. We are the home of the world famous Glass Beach! Every year there is a huge Whale Festival on the 3rd weekend of March, and Saturday morning the Whale Run kicks it off! After the Whale Run there are events all over town, including a craft fair; guided whale viewing; clam chowder, beer and wine tasting, entertainment, and music everywhere. See the www.whalerun.org for more information and interesting facts about whales.

The local Soroptimist clubs have been holding this race for 38 years, with up to 800 runners participating on a beautiful day on the Mendocino Coast. The ocean and trails are as magnificent as ever and we know you will love the views and all the festivities in town on race day. All runners, walkers, and spectators will enjoy breathtaking whitewater ocean views (including whales) along this year’s new course starting at the Noyo Headlands Park (Cypress Street) on the Coastal Trail in Fort Bragg, CA

Here are the events you can sign up for:

• 5k-- runners will run north and turn around at or near Compass Rose.

• 5k-- "Fun" Walkers will follow the 5k runner's route.

• 10k-- runners dash north past Glass Beach then cross the beautiful Pudding Creek Trestle to the 10K turn around (10K map).

• 1/2 Marathon--same route as 10k but the turnaround is at MacKerricher State Park.

• Kiddie run -- 300 meter run in 2 age groups (U6 and U10)

There are multiple race age divisions. Note: under 16 run/walkers may enter any race division for a discounted rate at signup.

DOGS: We love dogs, but the insurance won't let us add them mixed with runners. You are welcome to walk your dog on the trails before and after the race (on leash). There's a dog park by the swim center on Lincoln and Maple, and there's a dog beach at the end of north harbor drive.

FAQ's: Click Here to go to the race website and find answers to commonly asked questions about the race.

Welcome to the 26th annual Big River Adventure!

Join us for a unique race experience where you can choose your adventure to run, swim, walk, or paddle your way through the scenic beauty of Mendocino County's Big River.

For the past 26 years, Cancer Resource Centers of Mendocino County has been bringing our community together for this special fundraising event. While the activities may change from year to year, our mission remains steadfast: to honor and remember those impacted by cancer, and to raise vital funds to support free services for individuals facing cancer in Mendocino County.

Starting at the Big River boat launch, participants will embark on a journey filled with stunning views and the shared goal of making a difference in the lives of others.

Don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure! Register now and be part of something truly meaningful.

To keep this family-friendly event affordable and accessible to our community, we will not be providing t-shirts this year.

Here is a link to a trail map

• 5k runners will run east on the haul road to the 5k turn around.

• 10k runners dash east on the haul road to the 10K turn around (10K map).

• 5k "Fun" Walkers will follow the 5k runners route.

• Kiddie run will begin at the boat launch

• Swimmers will dive in at the boat lunch and swim east up Big River

• Paddlers will begin at the boat launch and paddle east up Big River *Please note you must bring your own vessel.

There are multiple race age divisions. Note: Participants between the ages of 6 and 17 may enter any race division at a discounted rate of $20 at signup.

Race Contact Info

Phone / Teléfono: (707) 937-3833

E-mail / Correo electrónico: [email protected]