2026 Call of the Wild Half Marathon & 5 Mile

The 2026 Call of the Wild Half Marathon & 5 Mile is an inaugural trail running event set in the historic Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen, California. Scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 8:00 AM PDT, the race offers participants a rare opportunity to run through the "Beauty Ranch" once owned and operated by the legendary author Jack London. The course takes runners past iconic landmarks, including the London Cottage and famous concrete silos, before ascending into the diverse forests and meadows of Sonoma Mountain.

The event is designed as a rugged trail run with significant elevation changes, particularly for the Half Marathon distance. To maintain the safety and integrity of the narrow trails, the organizers have implemented a strict no-headphones policy. While hikers and walkers are encouraged to participate, all athletes must complete the course within a 3.5-hour cut-off time. Aid stations are strategically placed at mile 2.5 for the 5-miler and miles 3 and 9.6 for the half marathoners.

*Award ribbons are mailed to the top three finishers in each age group post-race.

Glen Ellen is an unincorporated community in Sonoma County, California, nestled in the heart of the Sonoma Valley "Wine Country." As of 2026, the area has a population of approximately 750 residents, though it serves as a major destination for thousands of tourists annually. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the demographic profile of the Glen Ellen area is approximately 82.4% White (non-Hispanic), 11.6% Hispanic or Latino, 2.1% Asian, and 0.8% Black or African American. The community is characterized by a high median household income of roughly $110,000.

The local culture in Glen Ellen is deeply rooted in both viticulture and literary history. Jack London’s legacy as a "pioneer farmer" who utilized sustainable practices remains a point of pride for the region. The community emphasizes environmental stewardship and "slow living," making it a premier location for trail events that respect the natural landscape. Because the park features sensitive habitats and historic structures, the event is strictly limited in capacity, reflecting the town's commitment to preserving its ecological and historical assets.

For the participants, the "Call of the Wild" is an immersive experience in the scenery that inspired London’s greatest works. The course travels through groves of madrone, Douglas fir, and black oak, offering expansive views of the valley. Due to the limited parking at Jack London State Historic Park (available for a $10 fee), carpooling is a mechanical necessity for the event's success. Athletes are encouraged to stay at the historic Jack London Lodge, which serves as the unofficial event headquarters.

The social impact of the inaugural run is significant, as it introduces a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts to the agricultural innovations London championed over a century ago. By adhering to a "leave no trace" philosophy and strictly marking the course with orange ribbons, Enviro-Sports ensures that the race benefits the park's visibility without compromising its integrity. On May 2nd, runners will embody London's famous mantra—to be "ashes rather than dust"—as they push their limits on the rugged slopes of Sonoma Mountain.