Griffith Park Trail Marathon Relay and 8K

Lace up for an unforgettable trail adventure at the Griffith Park Trail Marathon Relay and 8K, set for June 7, 2026, in the heart of Los Angeles, CA. This event, celebrated by Runner's World magazine as one of its "10 Best Races You've Never Heard Of," offers both a challenging marathon relay (26.2M) and a scenic 8K solo run, promising breathtaking views and a vibrant atmosphere.

The course is designed to be an intermediate to challenging experience, winding through the iconic hills of Griffith Park. Runners will navigate mostly packed dirt and fire roads, with some asphalt sections, encompassing diverse terrain from the Old Zoo loop to the Bill Eckert Trail, Vista Del Valle Drive, Fern Canyon Trail, and Old Zoo Trail. Expect a demanding 1.7-mile climb, followed by varied flat, winding, and enjoyable downhill segments. Throughout your journey, you'll encounter two well-supported aid stations stocked with water, electrolyte drinks, and snacks, ensuring you stay fueled. The start and finish area, located near the Lower Old Zoo by the Merry Go Round parking lot, becomes a festive hub, encouraging teams to set up canopies for a picnic-like celebration. Typical race day conditions in early June offer pleasant highs around 76°F and lows around 61°F, ideal for trail running.

Beyond the scenic and challenging trails, the Griffith Park Trail Marathon Relay and 8K distinguishes itself with a strong sense of community and celebration. Runners praise the "beautiful location, tough but rewarding loop course with great views and stable footing" and the lively atmosphere. All participants receive a premium short-sleeve t-shirt and a unique finisher's medal, with cash prizes for top open division relay teams and awards for top finishers in other categories. With DJs, music, and food trucks, this event is more than just a race; it's a memorable running festival perfect for both competitive teams and solo adventurers seeking an engaging trail experience in one of the country's largest urban parks.