Napa Wilderness Trail Runs

Welcome to Napa Wilderness in Trail Runs

Welcome to the Bay Trailrunners Napa Wilderness Trail Runs at Skyline Wilderness Park! Now in our 6th year at this location, this event offers something for every level of trail runner — from a fun and approachable 10K for newer runners or those returning to the sport, to our 21K Half Marathon, a perfect step up for anyone looking to build strength and confidence on the trails. For those ready for more, we offer a challenging 30K and the beast of the day: our tough and scenic 50K ultra marathon. This year, we’ve reengineered the course and added some fresh new trails through Napa Open Space. These new sections bring even more beauty, variety, and adventure to an already special event. Join us for a day of old-fashioned trail running, community, and big Napa views.

Races / Registration Information

The Napa Wilderness Trail Runs at Skyline Park offer something for everyone — from a welcoming 10K to ultra-distance challenges. The 30K and 50K routes climb the iconic Rim Rock Trail, where steep ascents reward you with breathtaking views across Napa Valley. From the summit, you can spot Mount Diablo to the east, Mount Tamalpais to the west, and Mount Saint Helena to the north. The 21K is a moderate-level run, perfect for building toward longer distances or simply enjoying a great day on the trails. The 10K is an ideal challenge for newer runners or anyone getting back into trail running. And the 50K? With over 7,000 feet of vertical gain, it’s a true test of grit — one you won’t forget. Registration is open until May 15 at 5:00 PM. Race-day registration will be available up to 30 minutes before the start of each distance, but a $15 same-day processing fee will apply. Save your spot now and skip the extra fee.

Parking & Arrival Information

Skyline Wilderness Park 2201 Imola Ave. Napa, CA 94559 Click here for directions The $6 parking fee is included in your race registration. All runners and volunteers must enter through the South Gate overflow parking lot. Please do not use the main gate if you are participating in the event. The South Lot is located approximately 1/8 mile before the main entrance on the right-hand side, near the 40 MPH road sign. Look for a Bay Trailrunners volunteer who will direct you to your parking spot. Please be prepared to show your registration (on your phone or a printed copy) upon arrival to ensure entry. If you have friends or family coming to cheer you on, they will need to enter through the main gate and pay the $6 parking fee. Additional Notes: Dogs are allowed in the start/finish and camping areas, but not on the trails. Once inside, please park only on the left side of the gravel road and pull all the way forward into the grass lot. Please be mindful that campers may still be sleeping and there are horses in nearby fields. Quiet hours end at 7:00 AM, so let’s respect the park and others enjoying it. Thank you for helping us keep everything running smoothly—we appreciate it!

Camping and Park Extras

Make a Weekend of It at Skyline Wilderness Park Skyline Wilderness Park has so much more to offer beyond race day. If you’d like to camp before or after the event, the park features a variety of options—from RV sites to tent camping, all with restrooms and showers available onsite. You can also enjoy everything the park has to offer, including mountain biking, horseback riding, and disc golf, along with plenty of space to relax and take in the scenery. Please note: All camping and park activities are managed and purchased directly through Skyline Wilderness Park and are not included with Bay Trailrunners registration. Skyline Wilderness Park Web Site

Course Cutoffs & Important Information

10K: 4 hours to complete 21K (Half Marathon): 6 hours to complete (no aid station cutoffs) 30K: 8 hours to complete (no aid station cutoffs) 50K: 10 hours to complete Important: You must complete the 30K portion within 6 hours to be allowed to continue onto the final loop. The Race Director or Course Manager may make a final determination if you are near a cutoff time, including recommending a downgrade or allowing you to continue. If you choose to drop from the race at any point on the course, you are responsible for walking back to the start/finish area. 👉 There is NO transportation from any aid station back to the start/finish. Please plan accordingly. Crew, Aid Stations & Safety Crew access is only allowed at the Lake Marie Aid Station. The Lake Marie Aid Station is approximately a 2-mile walk/hike from the start/finish area. Runners in the longer distances will pass through Lake Marie multiple times (approximately 3–6 times). Crew members may assist with drop bags, but Bay Trailrunners will not transport drop bags to or from this location. Safety Reminder It is highly recommended that all runners carry a fully charged mobile phone. Cell service is available on most parts of the course, but not guaranteed everywhere. Please plan ahead, be self-sufficient, and respect the course. This is a true trail event—part of the challenge is managing your effort, time, and resources out there.

Course Maps and Elevation

Course Maps & Elevation – Napa Wilderness Trail Runs 2026 Skyline Wilderness Park and Napa Open Space have added new trails for the 2026 event. Course maps are final as of May 5, 2026, but may be subject to last-minute changes due to park or permitting requirements. We strongly recommend downloading your Strava maps in advance. 50K Ultra Distance: 32.4 miles / 52K Elevation Gain: ~6,700 ft Difficulty: Hard View 50K Strava Route 30K Distance: 18.2 miles Elevation Gain: ~4,000 ft Difficulty: Hard View 30K Strava Route 21K / Half Marathon Distance: 13.9 miles Elevation Gain: ~2,600 ft Difficulty: Moderate View 21K Strava Route 10K Distance: 6.1 miles Elevation Gain: ~1,300 ft Difficulty: Moderate View 10K Strava Route https://www.strava.com/routes/3224081614887225766 10K Distance: 6.1 miles Elevation Gain: ~1,300 ft Difficulty: Moderate Route: https://www.strava.com/routes/3224083003375866220 Be prepared for a true trail experience—these courses are scenic, challenging, and designed to showcase the best of Napa’s trails.

Swag & Merchandise

Swag & Merchandise All runners and volunteers will be able to choose from a selection of shirt colors featuring the Bay Trailrunners and Bay Area Ridge Trail logos. All finishers will receive a lightweight, insulated Bay Trailrunners cup/mug—perfect for keeping drinks hot or cold, whether it’s morning coffee or a post-run refreshment. We’re an old-school trail race, and that means no medals. Instead, we focus on useful, high-quality swag—gear you’ll actually use every day, not something that ends up hanging on a wall or forgotten in a box. We’ll also have additional gear available for purchase on race day, including hats, sun hoodies, and shirts. Payment Info: Cash is preferred We also accept PayPal, Venmo, and Apple Cash

Runner Check-In & Race Briefing (IMPORTANT)

Runner check-in and bib pickup will open 1 hour before your race start. Please do not line up early—this helps keep the area clear for runners whose races are starting soon. A mandatory race briefing will take place 10 minutes before the start of each distance. 👉 You must attend. Do not be the runner who delays the start for everyone else—be on time and ready to go. Finish Line Drop Bags There will be a designated tarp area near the start/finish where you can leave your finish line drop bags. That said, your car is very close to the start/finish area, and in many cases, that may be the easier option. Restrooms & Course Etiquette (IMPORTANT) There will be porta-potties available near the start/finish area. 👉 There are NO restrooms on the course. The longer distance races will pass through the start/finish area multiple times, so plan accordingly. If you need to go while out on the course: 👉 PLEASE pack out everything and leave nothing behind. Respect the trails, the park, and other users. There will be trash bins at aid stations—use them. Final Note Be prepared, arrive on time, and take responsibility for your gear and race readiness. A smooth start depends on everyone doing their part.

Aid Stations and Course Markings

Aid Stations & On-Course Support Aid will be available at the start/finish area and at stations throughout the course, typically spaced every 5 to 9 miles. All runners can expect well-stocked aid stations with a wide variety of pre-packaged food and snacks. Volunteers will pour water or hydration into your cups/bottles Food will be placed on the table for you to grab There will be no open food containers We’ll be serving Skratch hydration and GU nutrition on course, with plant-based options available at all aid stations. ⚠️ IMPORTANT – 30K & 50K RUNNERS ⚠️ There is a ~7ish-mile section with only a water stop in the middle. 👉 You must be prepared. Carry enough water and nutrition to get through this longer stretch safely. Plan ahead, stay self-sufficient, and respect the challenge of the course.

On-Course Support & Vendors

On-Course Support & Vendors Hydration and gels will be available on course to keep you fueled and moving. We’ll be serving Skratch and Cure Hydration, along with GU gels. All three major aid stations will be stocked with fruit and classic ultra fare—including PB&J sandwiches, cookies, chips, and more. Yousef’s Gourmet Foods will be serving hot and cold wraps and snacks post-race, with vegan options available—perfect for recovery and refueling. Victory Sportdesign will be onsite with drop bags and merchandise, so you can check out gear and pick up any last-minute essentials. Helpful Links Skyline Wilderness Park – Camping & Park Information Victory Sportdesign – Order Here Cure Hydration Long Run Coffee GU Energy Stretch Hydration

Post- Race Food/Drink

Post-Race Food & Drinks All runners will be treated to a wrap or burrito from Yousef’s Gourmet Foods, with plant-based options available. Cold drinks will be available in coolers for everyone to enjoy after finishing—perfect for rehydrating and relaxing at the finish line.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Interested in earning a $50 credit toward a future race? Come be part of the team and help make this event happen! 6-hour minimum shift for race credit Volunteer shirt included Race-day meal provided 📧 Email us at [email protected] to sign up Why Volunteers Matter Events like this do not happen without volunteers—period. Every aid station, every turn on the course, every smooth start and finish line experience is made possible by people who show up and give their time. 👉 We truly need you. If you’re running, consider asking a friend or family member to volunteer—it’s a great way for them to be part of the day while supporting you and the entire trail running community. Be part of something bigger. Help us create an unforgettable race day.

CUPLESS RACE – READ CAREFULLY

We can’t stress this enough: ALL Bay Trailrunners races are CUPLESS. 👉 You must bring your own cup, water bottle, or hydration system. There will be NO cups available at aid stations or at the start/finish area. Aid stations will provide water and hydration, but you need your own container to receive it. Some events may have reusable hydration pouches available for purchase, but do not rely on this—come prepared. 🚨 No cup = no hydration on course. 🚨 PLEASE bring a cup, water bottle, or hydration pack.

Race Photos

Race photos will be provided by Jay Boncodin. Photos will be available to view at no charge, with the option to purchase high-resolution images directly from the photographer. We’re also working on a new platform to store and share your race memories—details and access will be emailed out after the event. If you or your crew take photos during the race, we’d love to include them! 📧 Please send any photos to [email protected] so they can be shared with the community.

Cheer and Picnic

Spectators & Family All runners are encouraged to bring family and friends to cheer them on! There are plenty of great spots within the park—close to the start/finish area—with picnic tables and shade, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day while your runner is out on the course. You can also explore the park or take a hike and be part of the experience. If you arrive with your runner in the same car, you’ll be directed into the runner parking area. If you plan to arrive later to cheer, picnic, or spectate, you’ll need to enter through the main gate and pay the $6 parking fee. Come hang out, enjoy the day, and be part of the trail running community!

Trail Rules and Etiquette

Trail Etiquette & Race Rules Respect the Trails & Others Trail running is a shared experience. You will encounter hikers, bikers, horses, and dogs. Please be kind and respectful. Just because we have a permit and you’ve paid to participate does not give you the right of way. Treat others as you would in a shared public space. Leave No Trace 🚫 Absolutely no littering. Pack out everything you bring in. Passing Etiquette When passing another runner, announce yourself politely: 👉 “May I pass?” or “On your left, please.” Bib Visibility All runners must wear their bib clearly on the front of their body. (Not on your back, pack, hat, or anywhere else.) Right of Way Downhill runners have the right of way. Uphill runners and hikers—please stay alert and keep your head up. Dropping from the Race If you decide to stop before or during the event, you must turn in your bib or notify a race official at the start/finish or an aid station. Respect Volunteers Our volunteers give their time to make this event possible. 👉 Please thank them—often and sincerely. Be respectful, be responsible, and help us keep trail running the special community it is.

Results & Awards

Final results will be posted on UltraSignup within 72 hours after the event. We’re an old-school, manually timed race, so please be patient—we’ll get results up as quickly and accurately as possible. Awards: Top 3 Overall Male & Female in each distance will receive race credits (with a minimum of 50 runners in that event) Due to the size of our race (typically under 150 runners), there are no age group awards Thanks for your understanding and for supporting grassroots trail running!

Bay Trailrunners / Trail Squirrel Adventures LLC – Event Policies

Refunds & Transfers Entry fees for Bay Trailrunners (Trail Squirrel Adventures) events are non-refundable and non-transferable, and we do not offer deferrals to future races. All aspects of the event—permits, insurance, swag, awards, and logistics—are planned and paid for well in advance of race day. 👉 No bib transfers are allowed. If a runner is found competing under another person’s registration, their bib will be pulled, and they will not receive an official result or race swag. Race Cancellation Credits If you are unable to attend, you may qualify for a race credit by notifying us in writing: 75% credit – Notify us 30 days prior to the event 50% credit – Notify us 14 days prior 25% credit – Notify us at least 72 hours prior 3 days from event start no credit will be issued 📧 Email: [email protected] Credits are valid for 1 year from the issue date Registration platform fees are non-refundable and not credited No-shows receive no credit Event Changes & Cancellations Races will not be canceled due to rain or heat Course changes (reroutes, trail work, closures) may occur at any time due to permitting agencies—these are outside of race management control, and no refunds or credits will be issued for such changes If a race location must change due to park closures, registrations will be automatically transferred to the new venue Participants may choose to cancel, but entries remain non-refundable and non-transferable In the event of cancellation due to extreme weather, fire, or unsafe air quality, the race will be: Rescheduled, or Issued a 50% credit toward a future event Any cancellation decision will be made with the safety of runners, volunteers, and staff as the top priority. Event Swag While we make every effort to provide all advertised swag, we reserve the right to substitute items due to supply chain or vendor issues. 👉 Swag will not be mailed if it is not picked up on race day. Thanks for understanding and supporting a grassroots trail running community.

Thank You

RD:Todd Glieden Trail Squirrel Adventures LLC Castro Valley , CA

Race Day Registration & Final Reminders

If the race is not at capacity, race-day registration may be available at a premium price. 👉 Save money and secure your spot by registering in advance. If you plan to register on race day, please arrive at least 45 minutes before your start time to complete your waiver and pick up your bib. A race briefing will take place 10 minutes before the start of each distance. 👉 It is mandatory that you attend. We also strongly encourage all runners to download the Strava GPS map from the registration page prior to race day to familiarize yourself with the course. Be prepared, arrive early, and set yourself up for a smooth race experience.

Our Founder Robert Rhodes

If trail running is the ruling passion in Rob's life, it is best expressed in the company he created, BayTrailrunners. He built this group from scratch, starting with just a few like-minded runners to staging races attended by hundreds of runners. Along the way, he controlled all aspects of the races he created. He built and managed the BayTrailrunners website and created newsletters and mailing lists to promote the runs along with print, social media content, and videos. Rob and his media side hustle, the Dirtbagger Film Syndicate, also became the first international representative of the Trails in Motion Film Tour when it was awarded the film distributorship rights for Northern California. Each year now, Rob screens a new selection of films in various venues in California and elsewhere. His screenings have grown from just one in 2014 to ten in 2019 and have included such stages as the Western States Memorial Day Weekend Training, Miwok, North Face Endurance Challenge, Hardrock, Broken Arrow Skyrace, Lake Sonoma 50, and American Trails Running Association Trail Conference.