Embrace a refreshing start to your Saturday with the Baylands Nature Preserve parkrun, a vibrant 5K community event set against the stunning backdrop of Palo Alto, CA. Taking place on February 28, 2026, this free, volunteer-led run offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and fellow enthusiasts. Runners, joggers, and walkers alike will traverse a beautiful course winding along the San Francisquito trail, providing picturesque views through one of the largest undisturbed marshlands in the San Francisco Bay. Expect a mix of gravel and permanent paths, offering a diverse running surface.

The Baylands Nature Preserve is renowned as a prime bird-watching destination, promising glimpses of diverse wildlife and a serene, rolling green landscape bordered by calm wetlands. You might spot ducks floating peacefully and geese flying overhead as you make your way through this bayside oasis. The start and finish are conveniently located at the Lucy Evans Environmental Centre, where participants gather at the picnic tables at the far end of the carpark.

This welcoming parkrun, which became live on September 16, 2025, fosters a strong sense of community, encouraging participants of all abilities to enjoy the outdoors and get active. Typical race day conditions for this time of year offer comfortable temperatures, with highs around 64F and lows around 45F, and only an 11% chance of precipitation. After crossing the finish line, many participants extend the camaraderie by joining a post-parkrun coffee gathering nearby, a perfect way to share experiences and build connections.