The Tamalpa Challenge 2026

The Tamalpa Challenge 2026 is a series of three cross-country races held in China Camp State Park, San Rafael, CA, in memory of John Lawson. Start times are staggered: women begin at 9:00 AM, masters men at 10:00 AM, and open men at 11:00 AM. The course is approximately 4.20 miles, primarily on rolling single-track trails with a short section of asphalt. The start is located near the Miwok Meadows gate, with the finish line and registration at the Miwok Meadows picnic area. Participants should warm up and cool down away from the course once racing commences to ensure safety. Due to State Park regulations limiting the Miwok Meadows capacity to 200 people, participants are asked to limit their post-race stay in the picnic area. While race-day entries are not encouraged, last-minute substitutions can be arranged by contacting the Race Director via email. Parking is limited; carpooling is highly recommended. Parking is also available along San Pedro Road, close to the Miwok Meadows gate start.