Spartan Trail - San Jose Trail Challenge

Spartan Trail – San Jose Trail Challenge

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Date

Sep 27, 2025

Starting Time

9:00 AM

Course

Trail

Fees

£99+

Location

San Jose

Participants

1,000-10,000

Terrain

Challenging

Environment

Mountain Views, Forested

Temperature
High: 80°
/ Low: 60°
Perfect For:
Large Crowds
Well Organized
Overview

The Spartan Trail San Jose, part of the Spartan Trail series, returns to Sanborn County Park near Saratoga, CA, on Saturday, September 27, 2025. This standalone event offers a trio of trail distances—10 K, half marathon (21 K), and a full 50 K ultra—on a challenging course nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Logistics & Support

  • Start Times: Half marathon at 9 AM, 10 K at 11 AM, 50 K at 7 AM.
  • Aid Stations: Stocked with water, electrolytes, fruit, gels, and snacks; runners should carry their own hydration for 10 K and above .
  • Gear Requirements: Half marathon runners are encouraged to carry a 16 oz (0.5 L) water supply; 50 K runners must have a 1 L reservoir + mandatory bib and chip display .
  • Cut‑offs: Enforced by Spartan Trail regulations to ensure safety; exact time limits vary by distance.

Atmosphere & Why It’s Unique

  • Nestled in a redwood-laced canyon, the course balances beauty and challenge—perfect for nature-loving trail runners.
  • As part of Spartan Trail’s “Trail Challenge” series, this event carries Spartan’s reputable organizational standards and trail-run authenticity.
  • The 50 K ultra includes recent additions from Castle Rock State Park, featuring new technical and scenic segments.
  • Spartan’s eco-conscious policies discourage littering and encourage mindful mountain stewardship.
Course Description

Winding through redwood glades and steep ridges, the race features single-track forest trails with a mix of flow and technical sections. Expect sustained climbs and descents; the half marathon will test runners with 1,400 ft of climbing spread across hilly terrain, while the 50 K ultra pushes that into multi-thousand-foot elevation gain. The forest canopy provides shade and cooler temperatures—even in late September.

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