Angwin to Angwish Trail Run

Angwin to Angwish is a signature trail running event scheduled for Sunday, May 3, 2026, held within the expansive forest lands of Pacific Union College (PUC) in the Napa Valley. The event serves as a primary fundraiser for the PUC Athletics department, drawing runners to the scenic, high-elevation ridges of Angwin. The race is known for its challenging vertical profiles and committed environmental stance, operating as a strictly cupless event to preserve the integrity of the private trail system.

All participants must check in on race morning at the event start. Because the event is cupless, runners are required to carry their own hydration systems or reusable cups for use at the aid stations.

The geography of the course is defined by the unique ecosystem of Howell Mountain. Runners navigate a dense canopy of Douglas firs, redwoods, and madrones, with trails consisting of a mix of soft forest floor and technical volcanic rock sections. The elevation in Angwin provides a cooler microclimate compared to the Napa Valley floor, with average May morning temperatures starting around 10°C (50°F) and reaching highs of 22°C (72°F). The 26K course is particularly demanding, featuring significant cumulative elevation gain that justifies its "Angwish" moniker.

Logistically, registration closes on April 24, and the event has a strict no-refund policy. Free parking is available near the campus gym on a first-come, first-served basis. Bib pickup opens at 6:00 AM on race morning to accommodate the early start for the long-distance runners. Results are traditionally hosted on UltraSignup, showcasing the competitive nature of the regional trail running community.

Participation in California trail events often reflects broader state-wide demographic trends within the endurance sports community. According to the 2025 California Outdoor Recreation Report and tracking data from major trail series in the region, the demographic breakdown for mountain and trail running remains distinct: approximately 76.4% of participants identify as White, 11.2% as Hispanic or Latino, 8.5% as Asian American, and 1.4% as Black or African American. While the Napa Valley region has a large Hispanic population, participation in technical trail running within this demographic is often lower than in local road races, a trend regional organizers are attempting to address through increased community outreach and collegiate partnerships at institutions like Pacific Union College.