Escape the ordinary and discover the Black Mountain Trail Races, an exhilarating journey through San Diego's stunning Black Mountain Open Space on June 20, 2026. Offering challenging distances of 50K, 25K, and a Half Marathon, this event welcomes trail runners of all levels, from those seeking their first taste of technical terrain to seasoned ultra-veterans. The courses climb and descend through chaparral and coastal sage scrub, featuring a dynamic mix of rocky, steep single-track and runnable jeep trails. Runners will traverse trails steeped in history, winding through Amat Kwanyil—an ancient extinct volcano and ancestral Kumeyaay land—all while enjoying breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Cuyamaca Mountains to the east.

Starting and finishing at Hilltop Community Park, the race promises a genuine test of endurance and skill. The 50K boasts approximately 5,500 feet of elevation gain, the 25K around 2,500 feet, and the Half Marathon about 2,000 feet, culminating in spectacular 360-degree views from the Black Mountain summit. Expect well-stocked aid stations with water, electrolyte drinks, and ice, supported by the San Diego Ham Radio Community to ensure runner safety and communication. With typical race day conditions hovering around comfortable highs of 73F and lows of 63F, and virtually no chance of precipitation, the focus will be purely on the trails, the challenge, and the vibrant, supportive community atmosphere that defines this premier San Diego trail event.