Rattlesnake Ramble

Elevation & Profile

The half marathon course is best categorized as hilly. Marin’s coastal hills provide sustained climbs rather than short, punchy rollers. Elevation gain typically accumulates steadily through long fire road ascents, followed by extended descents that require careful pacing and quad management.

The climbing is not extreme in alpine terms, but it is continuous enough to prevent sustained flat pacing. Runners should expect meaningful vertical gain compared to road half marathons.

Surface & Technicality

The course consists primarily of dirt fire roads and singletrack trails. Surfaces range from hard-packed dirt to loose gravel, with occasional rutted or rocky sections. In March, trail conditions can vary depending on winter rainfall—ranging from firm and fast to muddy in shaded sections.

Footing is generally non-technical compared to mountain trail races, but descents can become slippery if damp.

Mile-by-Mile Character

Miles 1–3: Early climbing establishes the tone of the race quickly.

Mid-Race: Ridgeline segments offer panoramic views of the Bay, with rolling terrain that alternates between steady climbs and gradual descents.

Final Miles: Longer downhill stretches return runners toward the shoreline staging area, often with one final gradual climb before the finish.