Headwaters Trail Runs

Headwaters Trail Runs are 56k, 31k, and 10k trail running events held in the Klamath Mountains west of Mount Shasta City, CA.  These three scenic trail runs are named after the headwaters of the Sacramento River.

The 56k and 31k races are scenic, mountainous loop courses.  They are run entirely on single-track trails and dirt forest roads that wind up, down, around, and through the rugged mountains that claim host to the crystal-clear headwaters of California’s longest river. Both races include miles on the historic Sisson-Callahan National Recreation Trail. The 56k boasts a total of ~8,000-feet of gain, and the 31k is no slouch with ~4,000-feet total gain.

The 10k race is a relatively flat, fast loop on the lake trail that circles the forested shores of picturesque Lake Siskiyou.  There is about 250-feet of total gain on the Lake Siskiyou Trail, a local’s favorite for trail runners of all abilities, and has ~250-feet total gain.

The magnificent backdrop for all runs is majestic Mt. Shasta (14,179′ elev.), the most massive of all the Cascade volcanoes, and Mt. Eddy (9025′ elev.), the highest peak in the Klamath Mountains.  Runners are rewarded with clean mountain air, challenging terrain, fully-stocked aid stations, and a welcoming and enthusiastic volunteer staff.

Headwaters Trail Runs acknowledges that these races occur on traditional homelands of the Winnemem Wintu, Nom Sus Wintu, Nom Ti Pom Wintu, Wintʰu• Po•m, Shasta, Modoc, Okwanuchu,  Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla, and Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians.
​
All participants receive a hearty, organic post-race meal made by local chef Jacqueline Hertzog – arguably the best post-race meal anywhere!  Participants also receive a commemorative race t-shirt, and a unique finisher’s medal.

Headwaters Trail Runs is a cupless event, and runners will need to carry with them a means to drink at the aid stations.  We do our best to reduce the waste generated by this event in all aspects.  Please consider bringing your own reusable plate, utensils, and cup for the post-race meal.

A portion of the proceeds from this event are annually donated to the Mt. Shasta High School cross-county team.