Point Mariah Trail Marathon

The Point Mariah Trail Marathon returns to Truckee, California on August 1st, 2026, offering runners a unique multi-loop course through the protected Royal Gorge land near Soda Springs Ski Resort in the Lake Tahoe area. This event is organized by the Donner Party Mountain Runners (DPMR) and celebrates its fifth edition this year with support from local conservation groups such as the Truckee Donner Land Trust, the Soda Springs Ski Resort, and the U.S. Forest Service.
Race day typically sees clear skies over Truckee, California in early August, making for ideal trail running conditions despite a range of temperatures that can vary between 9.9°C to 27.0°C at dawn. The course winds through single-track trails offering expansive views of the Granite Chief Wilderness and the Pacific Crest Trail as it cuts westward from Sugar Bowl near Olympic Valley. Runners will encounter firm yet slightly soft trail conditions, suitable for both dry-weather training shoes or light hiking boots.
Since its inception in 2016, the Point Mariah Trail Marathon has become a celebrated event among endurance runners and nature enthusiasts alike. With around five hundred participants annually, this marathon supports local conservation efforts through partnerships with organizations like Truckee Donner Land Trust that work to preserve natural lands for public enjoyment. The race raises awareness about environmental stewardship in one of California's most scenic regions.
The course is a multi-loop adventure featuring single-track trails and dirt roads across the Royal Gorge land, leading runners past landmarks such as Razorback Ridge and Point Mariah overlooks. Each loop returns to an aid station on Soda Springs Road where participants can rest briefly before continuing their journey along varied terrain that includes climbs up Rowton Peak via multiple routes.
On race day in Truckee, California, the weather is expected to be mild with temperatures ranging from 9°C at dawn to around 27°C during midday. The average humidity hovers around 49% and there's a low chance of rain, making for comfortable running conditions despite occasional breezes averaging about 6.8 miles per hour.
The Point Mariah Trail Marathon offers three race options: the marathon distance covering approximately 42.2 kilometers; a two-person partner relay marathon team option at $150; and a five-person relay marathon team entry fee of $250 (prices increase after June 15th). Participants can register via [https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=134521](https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=134521).
For those planning to attend the Point Mariah Trail Marathon, check-in is at 7:00 a.m. on August 1st in Truckee, California with race start time set for 8:00 a.m. Bib pickup details will be communicated prior to the event date.
The starting line for all participants is located near Soda Springs Ski Resort west of Truckee. All runners must meet the age requirement of being at least 16 years old by August 1st, and it's advised that first-timers arrive early with proper hydration gear suitable for a trail run in mountainous terrain.
Point Mariah Trail Marathon takes place on Saturday, August 1st, 2026, in Truckee, California. For runners looking to experience the beauty of protected land trails while supporting local conservation efforts, this marathon offers an unmatched blend of scenic vistas and challenging elevation changes that make it a standout event among trail races.