Headwaters Trail Runs

Headwaters Trail Runs takes runners into the Klamath Mountains west of Mount Shasta City, California, offering 52k, 34k, and 10k distances. The races are named for the Sacramento River's headwaters. The 52k and 34k are mountain loops with significant elevation changes: approximately 8,000 feet of gain for the 52k and 4,000 feet for the 34k. These distances are run entirely on single-track trails and dirt forest roads. The 10k utilizes the Lake Siskiyou Trail, featuring about 400 feet of gain and a nearly all-dirt surface. The 52k and 34k courses incorporate sections of the historic Sisson-Callahan National Recreation Trail, with views of Mt. Shasta and Mt. Eddy from the race vicinity. The 10k offers a more moderate route, following Lake Siskiyou and crossing a brief paved segment near Box Canyon Dam. The event recognizes the traditional territories of several Indigenous tribes. To minimize waste, the event is cupless, requiring participants to carry their own hydration vessels to aid stations. Post-race, runners receive a meal prepared by local chef Jacqueline Hertzog, a shirt, and a finisher medal. A portion of the proceeds supports the Mt. Shasta High School cross-country team.