4 events in Mariposa County, California

Here is a cleaner, more professional version with clearer flow and a few small corrections (age groups, repetition, etc.). I kept it RunSignup-appropriate—clear, readable, and concise.

The legend of Hornitos continues with the 48th Annual Indian Gulch Hornitos Run, hosted by the Merced Running Club. Join us for this classic foothill road race through some of California’s most beautiful open range land. Runners can choose from 2-mile, 5-mile, or 10-mile out-and-back courses beginning in the historic town of Hornitos and running toward Indian Gulch.

The race begins at Hornitos Park in Hornitos Central Park, where all three distances start together. Each course follows Hornitos Road as an out-and-back route. Aid stations will be located at the 5-mile and 10-mile turnarounds, and the 2-mile turnaround will be clearly marked along the course.

Registration

Pre-registration: $40 (all fees included)

Race-day registration: $50, available 7:00–8:00 AM (cash or check only)

Online registration will close at 130 participants. Shirts and medals are limited and guaranteed only to the first 130 registrants.

Packet pickup will take place on race morning from 7:00–8:00 AM at Hornitos Park, near the start line. T-shirts will be provided for all pre-registered runners and will be available to race-day registrants while supplies last.

New this year: Professional chip timing provided by BizzRunningCompany.

Awards

Top finishers in each 10-year age group will receive a unique race-themed award. In addition, the fastest overall male and female finishers in each distance will receive the race’s traditional “Golden Horseshoe” award.

Race registration also includes a continental breakfast and well-stocked aid stations at the 5-mile and 10-mile turnarounds.

Proceeds from the event continue to support the Mariposa County High School Track Team, and additional donations may be made directly through this website.

Event Notes

This is a plastic-cup-free event. Please bring your own cup or water bottle for use at aid stations.

Because the race is held on an open road with a narrow shoulder, we do not recommend bringing dogs or strollers.

Walkers are welcome on the 2-mile and 5-mile courses. Participants in the 10-mile distance should be prepared to run.

Merced Running Club Members: Use your member coupon code to receive $5 off registration.

If you'd like, I can also tighten this into a “high-conversion RunSignup version” (about 30% shorter) that tends to perform better on registration pages.

Mariposa county's classic Merced River Canyon Race returns this year with two options for runners.

McCabe Flat Flat out. This 5 mile race is from the Briceburg bridge to McCabe Flat campground and back (2.5 each way). As the name suggests this race is about as flat as a race in the foothills can be. This race can be done at any pace but some will choose to try and set a record on the flattest footrace in the county.

Burma Grade. This 9 mile race starts at the river level and climbs up the mighty Burma Grade (4.5 each way). This race offers the most elevation of any foot race in the county and leaves the racers with an amazing sense of accomplishment.

Both races are on hardpacked unpaved roads and offer amazing scenery in the Merced River Canyon.

Note on location and directions, please take highway 140 to get to Briceburg. While there are other ways to get here, they are not recommend, especially not on race day.

Paseo de Mariposa Trail Race

April 19, 2026 – Mariposa, California

A Note from the Race Director

Hello everyone! My name is Nate Moore, and I’m excited to share that I’ll be directing the 2026 Paseo de Mariposa Trail Race through my company, San Joaquin Running Co.

We love supporting local community events, especially those that celebrate trail running and the unique beauty of our region. Our goal is to carry forward the traditions that make this race special, while adding the same energy and care we bring to our other events.

Through San Joaquin Running, I help organize a variety of races across the Central Valley and Sierra foothills, including the Shadow of the Giants 50K, Pincushion Hill Climb, McKenzie Preserve Half Marathon, Sycamore Island 5K/10K, and others. Each event is built on the same foundation: creating tough, fun, and memorable experiences for runners of all ages and abilities.

I’m truly honored to help guide the Paseo de Mariposa into its next chapter. Together, we’ll keep this race a family-friendly tradition that highlights the heart of Mariposa and the adventure of trail running.

About the Event

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, just outside Yosemite National Park, Mariposa is rich in history and natural beauty — the perfect setting for outdoor adventure. On Sunday, April 19, 2026, join us for the seventh annual Paseo de Mariposa Trail Run, featuring 5K and 12K courses that begin at the historic Mariposa Courthouse (built in 1851, the oldest courthouse west of the Rockies still in use).

This family-friendly community event celebrates health, wellness, and active lifestyles. In support of our mission to engage youth in outdoor activity, all children under 18 can participate in any race for free.

Race Distances

5K – Family-Friendly & Beginner-Friendly

Shortest and most accessible option.

Starts at the courthouse, with sections on paved roads, a short climb past the high school, and a dirt fire road turnaround.

Perfect for families, walkers, and those new to trail running.

12K – The Big Adventure

Longest and most challenging route.

Features steep descents, a creek crossing, and a tough single-track climb to Slaughterhouse Road and the Flume Trail.

Stunning views along rugged single-track with significant elevation gain.

No strollers permitted; youth under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

Safety & Support

Aid stations will be positioned across all distances.

Trails include technical terrain — rocks, roots, and climbs — so please run or hike your route ahead of time if possible. Bringing a buddy is always recommended.

For everyone’s safety: no dogs are permitted on any route.

Why Join?

The Paseo de Mariposa is more than a race — it’s a celebration of community, family, and the outdoors. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, enjoying a scenic hike with friends, or introducing your kids to trail running, this event is designed for all ages and abilities.

✨ Mark your calendars for April 19, 2026!

We can’t wait to see you in Mariposa for an unforgettable day on the trails.