Back On The Ranch Trail Run

The Back On The Ranch Trail Run returns to Sand Creek Ranch in Los Olivos, California on October 2nd through the 4th of 2026 for its ninth annual edition. This event offers runners a unique opportunity to explore the stunning trails around Los Olivos over four days with various race options including 3-hour, 6-hour, 12-hour, and 24-hour segments culminating in an epic 48-hour challenge.
Participants gather at Sand Creek Ranch early on Friday morning for the start of their chosen segment. The ranch, a private property set amidst rolling hills and vineyards north of Santa Barbara County, provides a serene backdrop for the event with its blend of well-maintained dirt roads and softer single-track trails. Racers will complete laps around a 3.4-mile loop that offers approximately 400 feet of elevation gain per lap.
Since 2007, AllWeDoIsRun has been organizing trail running events in California’s Central Coast region with the Back On The Ranch Run being one of their signature races. Over nine years, this event has become a cornerstone for runners and campers alike, fostering a sense of community among participants who share stories around evening bonfires while taking part in rigorous physical challenges.
The course at Sand Creek Ranch features a mix of hard-packed dirt roads and softer single-track trails that wind through the property’s picturesque terrain. Aid stations are well-stocked and positioned every 3.4 miles along the route, providing runners with water, snacks, and other essentials they need to push themselves over multiple hours. Camping is available right next to the race course for those looking to immerse fully in the experience.
October weather at Sand Creek Ranch tends towards mild conditions suitable for endurance events. Temperatures typically range from around 12°C early morning up to a high of about 27°C during midday, with an average temperature hovering near 19°C throughout the day. Humidity levels usually hover between moderate and low, making it comfortable yet challenging for extended runs.

The race offers participants several options: 48 Hours ($300), 24 Hours ($175), two segments of a Daytime or Night Time 12 Hour run ($150 each), 6 Hours ($100), and a shorter 3-Hour segment ($75). Non-runners can also join the festivities for $35. Runners should visit https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=131188 to register online, where they will find detailed information on fees and deadlines.
Bib pickup occurs at Sand Creek Ranch, located at 34°41'52.4"N 120°09'04.8"W, the day before each segment starts for those participating in longer events like the 12 Hour or 24/48 hour runs, requiring runners to bring a government-issued ID and their confirmation email.
All participants must be at least 16 years old on race day. The start location address is provided above; newcomers should plan accordingly as parking and camping are free but first come, first served near the course itself.
The Back On The Ranch Trail Run in Los Olivos, California from October 2nd to 4th offers serious runners a chance to test their limits over various distances on scenic trails. With its long-standing tradition of fostering community among participants through shared stories and challenges around campfires, this event is worth attending for those who appreciate both the physical demands and social aspects of trail running in one of California’s most beautiful regions.