Set for Sunday, September 7, 2025, in Auburn’s rugged Mammoth Bar OHV Area within the American River Canyon, the Mammoth Bar Trail Runs deliver a weekend of vertical thrills and technical terrain. New for 2025 and produced by Singletrack Running/Skybreaker Racing, this half marathon (plus 5K and 10K) is a high-adrenaline test on California’s iconic off-road trails.
🛣️ Course Overview
- Technical terrain & real elevation: The half marathon packs approximately 4,300 ft of vertical gain, weaving through steep OHV single-track and double-track often used by motocross riders .
- Panoramic canyon views: Set within Auburn State Recreation Area, the route provides scenic vistas of the American River canyon and granite outcrops.
- Aid and logistics: Aid stations at miles 2, 5, and 11.3 (Castle Rock & F.D.L) offer hydration and fuel. The 10K features two stations; the 5K is cupless.
🎽 Race Day Atmosphere
The event welcomes trail runners longing for steep, technical, and scenic courses rather than speed. Its smaller scale ensures strong trail culture, clear marking (though downloading GPS files is encouraged), and a cupless, eco-friendly ethos ﹣ bring your own cup or bottle!
Finisher perks include a trail-themed medal, quality tech shirt (if ordered), and hearty post-race snack. Competitive awards are presented for top finishers in each distance, with a post-race atmosphere geared toward community, not spectacle.
🌟 Why It Stands Out
- Real vertical and technical challenge—steep climbs and rocky descents that reflect true OHV trail character.
- Scenic canyon setting—hidden gems of the American River Canyon, far from urban course trappings.
- Trail-community feel—small field, eco-friendly cupless model, well-marked yet self-directed.
- Versatile distances—offers scaled challenges from cupless 5K to vertical half marathon.
- Strong support—clear directions, timed finishes, aid stations, and post-race refreshments ensure a full-service trail event.
