The races sit beneath two defining peaks: Mt. Shasta — 14,179 ft, one of the most prominent and massive Cascade volcanoes Mt. Eddy — 9,025 ft, the highest peak in the Klamath Mountains Expect rugged mountain terrain, forested single-track, clean mountain air, and expansive views.
Run the Mountains. Find the Headwaters.
Overview
Headwaters Trail Runs is a scenic, community-focused mountain race in the Klamath Mountains, offering everything from a relatively accessible 10K around Lake Siskiyou to a demanding 52K with ~8,000 feet of climbing, all beneath the dramatic backdrop of Mt. Shasta.
Course
Headwaters Trail Runs is a mountain trail-running event in the Klamath Mountains west of Mt. Shasta, California, offering 52K, 34K, and 10K distances. The races take their name from the headwaters of the Sacramento River and showcase the rugged mountain landscapes surrounding Mt. Shasta and Mt. Eddy. The Courses Race Distance Elevation Gain Course 52K 32 mi / 52K ~8,000 ft Mountainous loop 34K 21 mi / 34K ~4,000 ft Mountainous loop 10K 6.2 mi / 10K ~400 ft Lake Siskiyou loop 52K & 34K: Challenging mountain loops combining single-track trails and dirt forest roads, with both races spending miles on the historic Sisson-Callahan National Recreation Trail. The 52K is the serious mountain challenge, packing roughly 8,000 feet of climbing into 32 miles. 10K: A more approachable course following the Lake Siskiyou Trail around the forested shoreline of Lake Siskiyou. It's approximately 99% dirt, with a short paved section crossing Box Canyon Dam, making it a good option for runners of varying experience levels.
Logistics
Swag & Medals
All participants receive a hearty organic post-race meal, a commemorative race t-shirt, and a finisher's medal. Top 3 overall male/female and top 3 per 10-year age group receive age-group awards.
Getting There
Driving Directions
From I-5 Exit #738, head west on W Lake Street toward W Jessie Street (0.2 mi). Continue on W Jessie Street/Hatchery Lane (0.2 mi). Turn left at the stop sign onto S Old Stage Road (0.2 mi). Veer right onto WA Barr Road (1.9 mi). Turn left into the Lake Siskiyou Dam Parking Lot just north of Box Canyon Dam. Walk 0.25 mi south across the dam to the start/finish area. Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/yh5o2TC5vvjyxbgC9
Parking
Lake Siskiyou Dam Parking Lot (primary, at the dam). Cable Beach Parking Lot — an additional 0.4 mi past the dam lot, 0.25 mi walk to start/finish. Overflow parking along Ney Springs Road.
Policies
Race Policies
Cupless event: runners must carry a water bottle, hydration bladder, or collapsible cup to receive aid-station drinks. Please bring a reusable plate, utensils, and cup for the post-race meal to help reduce event waste.
Charity & Beneficiary
A portion of proceeds is donated annually to the Mt. Shasta High School cross-country team.
Land Acknowledgement
Headwaters Trail Runs acknowledges that these races occur on the 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 the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians.
Sponsors
Topo Athletic, Kahtoola, Klean Kanteen, Fall River Brewing, The Fifth Season, Hammer Nutrition, Shasta Guides, Berryvale
Disclaimer
We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information on Kåduka, but details may change. Please always confirm the latest information on the official race website. See something that needs correcting? Send us a note at [email protected]