Black Mountain 50k

Race through history on the beautiful and challenging trails of Amat Kwanyil in San Diego. An ancient extinct volcano, Black Mountain was Kumeyaay land long before miners came and established the now abandoned arsenic mine. The open space is home to chaparral and coastal sage scrub, with manzanita-lined single-track, laurel sumac, deer, bobcats, red diamond rattlesnakes, and the occasional mountain lion.

Our three race distances, 50K, 25K, and half marathon, provide opportunities for all levels of experience, from first-time trail runners to ultra veterans. But don't be misled: trails can be rocky, steep, and technical. This course offers an opportunity for different runner's strengths to shine. With about 5,000 feet of elevation gain in the 50K, 2,500 in the 25K, and 2,000 in the half, and a balance of technical single-track and jeep trail, runners who excel at uphills, flats, downhills, technical trails, or heat will find moments to shine. 

Starting at Hilltop Park, runners climb to the top of Little Black Loop trail and run through the winding single-track trails within the Black Mountain Open Space. Runners then descend down Miners Loop and Ahwee trails until reaching Black Mountain Ranch Park (half marathon distance turns toward the Summit before reaching the park). From here, the 25Kers do a small loop before ascending to the summit of Black Mountain. 

The 50Kers complete the Lusardi Loop and Lilac trails before the climb to the Summit. After checking out the beautiful 360-degree views at the Summit, runners from all distances dart downhill to the finish, where food, drinks, and friends await!

Awards go to the top 3 men and women, with additional awards for first place masters (50+) male and first place masters female. $1000 to runners who break the 50k men's or women's course record.