Bizz Johnson

The Bizz Johnson marathon descends 929 feet on a rails-to-trails path from the forest toward Susanville, California. The race takes place each October on the Bizz Johnson Trail in Lassen National Forest and offers a 50K, marathon, Express half marathon, and Express 10K. The marathon is USATF certified and serves as a Boston Marathon qualifier, with official confirmation that the downhill course incurs no time penalty. The marathon and 50K begin at Mason Station Trailhead on McCoy Road, include an early out-and-back section, then merge onto the old railroad grade. The initial miles ascend approximately 280 feet to Westwood Junction, but the concluding 20 miles drop about 1,300 feet en route to Susanville. The trail follows the former Fernley and Lassen Branch Line of the Southern Pacific Railroad, accounting for the consistent gradients. Runners participate for fast times, Boston Marathon attempts, and the trail environment; the event weekend has been popular enough to fill local lodging, and Alanis Morissette is among past participants.