Mendocino Coast 50K

The Mendocino Coast 50K is a highly scenic trail ultramarathon scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026. This course highlights the diverse natural beauty of Northern California, taking participants through redwood forests, past waterfalls, and alongside the Big River. The race concludes with a dramatic finish along the coastal bluffs of Mendocino Village, providing expansive views of the Pacific Ocean. Known for its mix of lush inland trails and rugged coastal scenery, the event offers a comprehensive experience of the Mendocino region's unique geography.

Mendocino is an unincorporated community in Mendocino County, California, with a population of approximately 850 residents. The demographic profile of Mendocino County is approximately 64.8% White (Non-Hispanic), 26.5% Hispanic or Latino, 5.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1% Black or African American, and 2.2% Asian. The median annual household income in the county is roughly $64,500. Geographically, the race utilizes the Big River unit of Mendocino Headlands State Park, which transitioned from a historic logging area to a protected estuary and forest. The climate in mid-April on the Mendocino Coast is typically cool and damp, with average lows of 7°C (45°F) and highs of 15°C (59°F). Coastal fog is a frequent factor, often persisting into the late morning and keeping temperatures stable but chilly for runners.

Registration for the 2026 Mendocino Coast 50K closed on March 31st, and the event currently maintains a waitlist for interested participants. The race has a strong historical standing in the trail running community, with the course record held by Zach Bitter, who finished in 3:55:36 in 2016. Because the finish line is located on the Mendocino Village bluffs, runners are advised to prepare for variable wind conditions during the final miles. The event is managed under the UltraSignup platform, where results and historical top performances are recorded. Participants are encouraged to explore the historic village of Mendocino following the race, as the town is known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and local art scene.