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Race for Open Space

Name: Race for Open Space
Start: 2026-05-09
End: 2026-05-09
Location: Carmel-By-The-Sea, California

location_city Carmel-By-The-Sea

location_on California

flag United States

calendar_today 09 May, 2026

directions_run Running

language Official Website

About the Event

Big Sur Land Trust's 2026 Race for Open Space is a one-day trail running event dedicated to fostering an appreciation of natural spaces in Monterey County and celebrating the health benefits of time spent in nature. This annual event invites runners and hikers of all ages to find wonder among Monterey County’s most iconic landscapes. This time of year will provide participants with sweeping views of green ridge lines punctuated by colorful wildflowers.

Centered around Palo Corona Regional Park, participants are invited to choose their adventure by registering for a 5K, 12K, 25K, or 35K+ trail run. Each course promises a spectacular journey through sections of the Palo Corona Backcountry, normally closed to the public. A one-mile Fun-Run will be offered for individuals of all ages and abilities.

Race for Open Space’s technical partner, Inside Trail Running, will oversee the start/finish line, trail-marking, aid stations, and participant timing/results. All activities will be offered in compliance with public health and safety guidelines. Our community is deeply passionate about our mission to inspire love of land across generations, conservation of our unique Monterey County landscapes, and access to outdoor experiences for all.

On the day of the event, community partners and businesses such as Alvarado Street Brewery will help participants celebrate crossing the finish line with beer, food, and interactive tabling displays.

Races Offered

Palo Corona to Williams Canyon - Out & Back (25k)

May 09, 2026

straighten

Distance — 25K

terrain

Type — Road running

timer

08:00

The Lunch Bench Lollipop (35k+)

May 09, 2026

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Distance — 35K

terrain

Type — Road running

timer

08:00

Palo Corona to Whisler Wilson Overlook - Out & Back (12k)

May 09, 2026

straighten

Distance — 12K

terrain

Type — Road running

timer

08:30

Palo Corona Front-Ranch Lollipop (5k)

May 09, 2026

straighten

Distance — 5K

terrain

Type — Road running

timer

09:00

Palo Corona to Southbank Trail - Fun Run (1mi)

May 09, 2026

straighten

Distance — 1 Miles

terrain

Type — Road running

timer

09:00

Weather Overview

These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for May in Carmel-By-The-Sea.

Temp (°C)

Feels Like (°C)

thermostat 10.2° / 16.7°

wb_sunny 8.5° / 14.8°

Wind (km/h)

Humidity (%)

air 8.8 /

water_drop 81.6%

Temp (°C)

Feels Like (°C)

Wind (km/h)

Humidity (%)

thermostat 10.2° / 16.7°

wb_sunny 8.5° / 14.8°

air 8.8 km/h

water_drop 81.6%

About Carmel-By-The-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea, commonly known simply as Carmel, is a city in Monterey County, California, located on the Central Coast of California. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 3,220, down from 3,722 at the 2010 census. Situated on the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel is a tourist destination, known for its natural scenery and artistic history.