Paseo De Mariposa

*Pre-race bib pick up will be on Saturday, April 27th 9am-12 pm at Sticks Coffee

Sticks Coffee
4993 7th Street
Mariposa, CA

Catch the Bug!

Located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, home to Yosemite National Park, Mariposa is rich in history and natural beauty, ideally suited for those interested in outdoor activities. The seventh annual Paseo de Mariposa, is a 5K, 8(ish)K and 12K Trail Run held within Mariposa County. The race starts on the grounds of the Mariposa Courthouse, the oldest courthouse (c.1851) west of the Rockies that is still in use.

This event promotes health and overall wellness. The mission is to engage children in active lifestyles. All children under the age of 18 years are eligible to participate in each event at no cost.

The Paseo de Mariposa as a family-friendly trail running event that children and adults of all ages can enjoy. However, if you're new to trail running or running in general there definitely a few things for you to consider before signing up for this race.

The three different distances each have varying levels of difficulty and we definitely recommend that you consider your athletic ability and experience before race day.  Aid stations will be spread out across each of the three distances the members of the Mariposa county search and rescue team will also be on hand for runner support. Your safety is definitely a priority for us and we also want to make sure that everyone has a good time during the event.

The 5K route is not only the shortest distance but the most family friendly and beginner friendly route that you can choose. The race starts at the courthouse and the first part is on paved roads. There is a short climb up to the high school baseball field and another short and steep climb up a paved road and into the preserve. From there you'll travel on a dirt fire road (2 people wide) before turning around and heading back to the finish line at the courthouse.

The 8-ish K route follows the 5K route and continues on past the reservoir where the turn around point is located by the kiosk near Hwy 140. There is a steep rocky climb before you get to the reservoir and then another climb before the turnaround point.  The terrain is rolling with a few short steep climbs, but stays on the dirt road (2 people wide). The return trip follows the same course as the 5K with a quick lap around the courthouse before crossing the finish line.

The 12K route is not only the longest of the three routes but definitely the most challenging. Once you get into the preserve there is a short and steep downhill section with several tripping hazards along the way before you get to Stockton Creek. After crossing the creek you begin the long single track climb up to the reservoir and slaughterhouse road. Along the climb there are many rocky areas and places where it's much easier to hike instead of run. Once the trail empties out on Slaughterhouse road there is a gentle climb up to the Flume Trail, which is a moderately difficult single track. The final segment is a single track along the upper trail, which offers plenty of elevation gain and stunning views! No strollers are permitted for the 12K race. Youth under the age of 13 years old must be accompanied by an adult.

With all outdoor activities there are always risks for slips trips and falls. We strongly recommend either running or hiking your selected route before the day of the event it's always a good idea to take a buddy with you because nature is more fun with your friends!

See you on race day!!

*No dogs are permitted on any of the routes.