The 52k and 34k 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 52k boasts a total of ~8,000-feet elevation gain, and the 34k is no slouch with ~4,000-feet of elevation gain.

The 10k race is run on the Lake Siskiyou Trail along the forested shores of picturesque Lake Siskiyou.  There is about 400-feet of total gain on the Lake Siskiyou Trail, a local’s favorite for trail runners of all abilities.  Running surface is about 99% dirt with a short paved section across the Box Canyon Dam.

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.
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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.