Clouds Rest: 13 miles, 3,100 ft of gain, and hands down the best trail run in all of Yosemite. The route climbs the granite staircase before opening onto meadows and an unnamed lake, eventually narrowing to the exposed north ridge — a stretch of granite slabs leading straight to the summit, which I highly recommend you experience for yourself.

From the top, at 9,926 ft, you get the best views in the park — Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, Tenaya Canyon, and the Tuolumne high country all in one frame. That summit view is exactly why this run belongs on every trail runner’s bucket list.

If you’re chasing the best single day out in Yosemite, or just want to tick off one of the Sierra’s classic runs, make sure to check out our latest edit, Clouds Rest.

👇 Watch the full video on YouTube

Clouds Rest Full Video

Kearsarge Pass: 10 miles, 2,700 ft of gain, and one of the best introductions to Eastern Sierra trail running there is. The route climbs past Gilbert, Flower, and Heart Lakes before cresting the pass into Kings Canyon National Park — with Mt. Gould's ~13,000 ft summit just off-route if you want to bag a peak, which I highly recommend you do. The descent back is some of the best graded Sierra DG around, which is exactly why this is the gateway run. And if you're feeling ambitious, this is also mile one of a 20-mile point-to-point traverse into Kings Canyon, through one of the narrowest stretches of the entire Sierra — all downhill after Kearsarge Pass.

If you’re new to Sierra trail running, or just looking to tick something off you haven’t done before on the Eastside, make sure to check out our latest edit, Kearsarge Pass.

👇 Watch the full video on YouTube

Kearsarge Pass Full Video

This one had it all — pine-covered singletrack, exposed ridgelines, and one of the most coveted linkups in the San Gabriel Mountains.

The 3T’s to Mount Baldy point-to-point: 20 miles, 7,800 feet of gain, and 5 peaks in a single day. We made our way through the Cucamonga Wilderness, ticking off Timber, Telegraph, and Thunder before crossing into the Sheep Mountain Wilderness. From there we tackled the infamous Devil’s Backbone and tagged West Baldy for good measure — well worth it if you’ve never been.

This route is a reminder of why we love running in the mountains. Views just hit differently when you’re out on the trails.

👇 Watch the full video on YouTube

Mount Baldy's Ultimate Linkup Full Video

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Residing in the same zone as Mount Baldy, Ontario Peak and Bighorn Peak are located in the Cucamonga Wilderness within Angeles National Forest. Both are great introductory peaks for mountain running and must-do classics in San Bernardino County.

Ontario Peak is the more commonly run and hiked of the two — on any given day you'll find a good number of people on the trail. Bighorn Peak, while a classic in its own right, sees less traffic and is slightly more difficult to navigate, though manageable with the right equipment. For this video, I decided to link the two together to log some additional mileage and showcase the proximity of these peaks to the surrounding Cucamonga Wilderness summits, which include the Three T's (Timber, Telegraph, Thunder), Etiwanda, and Cucamonga.

This mini link-up totaled 14 miles with roughly 4,500 feet of elevation gain — fairly steep by any measure. As you make your way through Ice House Canyon toward Ice House Saddle, the trail climbs steeply through multiple switchbacks. Once at the saddle, the grade eases and the running opens up as you head toward Ontario and Bighorn Peaks. There's one additional saddle I highlight at 6:15 in the video, which serves as the out-and-back turnaround point for both peaks.

If you're new to mountain running — or considering a run up Mount Baldy just across the way but want to start with something a little less committing — Ontario and/or Bighorn Peak are excellent introductions and easily accessible from Southern California.

Note: Trail running in Angeles National Forest requires an Adventure Pass. I personally use an annual America the Beautiful Pass, which covers entry to any National Park and also serves as your Adventure Pass in National Forests.

If you're looking to explore the backcountry in your local mountains, be sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page — where you can download tracks we've already run and load them directly onto your watch or phone. This page is continuously updated, so take advantage of the routes already available and check back weekly as we add more.

Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to stay up to date with all of our latest trail running content. Enjoy this video of Ontario and Bighorn Peak in Angeles National Forest!

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Key Moments

Entering the Cucamonga Wilderness: 3:15
Ice House Saddle: 4:30
Ontario & Bighorn Saddle: 6:15
Ontario Peak: 7:55
Bighorn Peak: 10:45

Cirque Running's other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. We are Trail Runners. Mountain Guides. Educators. Forged in the Sierra, Cirque Running exists to elevate your running — through professional coaching and expertly crafted trips across the Range of Light and California.

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After numerous requests, we've put together our Trail Running Backcountry Essentials video! Every trail runner should have a solid understanding of what it takes to travel safely in the mountains on big days out. In this video, we break down the essential gear you should carry on any significant backcountry run, along with a quick checklist of key considerations to keep in mind before heading out. Whether you're an experienced trail runner looking to validate your current kit, or completely new to running in the mountains, this video is a well-rounded resource for trail runners of all levels. We’ve uploaded this video to our YouTube Channel due to the size of the file so click the link below to check it out!

Trail Running Backcountry Essentials | A Guide to Mountain Running Link

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This video is intended for educational purposes only and is not meant to serve as a complete or comprehensive guide to trail running in the backcountry. As noted throughout the video, the gear and practices shown represent a bare minimum baseline for approaching mountain running safely. Runners taking on larger objectives may choose to carry additional equipment, while those on shorter, more familiar routes may opt for a lighter kit. Consider this video a starting point — particularly for those newer to mountain and backcountry running — rather than a definitive resource.

If you're looking to explore the backcountry in your local mountains, be sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page — where you can download tracks we've already run and load them directly onto your watch or phone. This page is continuously updated, so take advantage of the routes already available and check back weekly as we add more!

Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to stay up to date with all of our latest trail running content. Enjoy the video, and start planning your next adventure in the mountains!

Video Topics

Preparation
Checklist
Run with a Partner
Leave a Note
Know the Weather Forecast
Understand the Terrain
Download your GPX Route
Understand the Permitting System

Equipment
Ultraspire Running Vest Alpha 6.0
650mL Soft Flasks
Platypus Quick Draw Water Filter
Neversecond Fuel & Hydration
Makeshift Wag Bag
Garmin InReach Mini 2
Suunto Race Watch
Blackdiamond Carbon Z Poles
Sunglasses & Sunscreen
Medical Kit

Clothing
Patagonia Duckbill Cap
Patagonia Capilene Cool Ultra Hoody
Patagonia Airspeed Pro Pullover
Patagonia R1 Full Zip Hoody
Patagonia Houdini Jacket
Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts
Hoka Tecton X3
Sierra Trail Runs Guidebook

Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. We are Trail Runners. Mountain Guides. Educators. Forged in the Sierra, Cirque Running exists to elevate your running — through professional coaching and expertly crafted trips across the Range of Light and California.

Subscribe now

An inland San Diego, North County favorite, Monserate Mountain is one of the most accessible peaks in San Diego, lying a stones throw away from Interstate 15, and clearly visible as you make your way along the highway through Fallbrook, just north of Escondido.

Monserate Mountain was unknown to me until this run. I was hired to guide a group of working professionals during their annual team building week and this peak was on the coordinators list, so I went to scout it out before the guided trip. All said and done, Monserate Mountain clocked in at just under 5 miles roundtrip and packed a punch with nearly 1,500' feet of elevation gain. While short and steep, the views atop Monserate Mountain were worth the grade and were very impressive, giving you sweeping views of North County San Diego, all the way to the coast.

What made this peak especially fun and special was the fact that it was a memorial peak for the fallen first responders of 9/11. As you make your way up the mountain, you'll pass by trial markers that indicate how high you would have been in one of the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York. It was great to see this unique way in which we can honor those courageous first responders of 9/11. Big thank you to whomever initiated this for the trail and Monserate Mountain.

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of Monserate Mountain in San Diego!

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Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Run Gear List

Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts 5”

Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt

Patagonia Duckbill Cap

Suunto Race Titanium

Raide Research LF 2L Running Belt

Hoka Mafatte X

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. We are Trail Runners. Mountain Guides. Educators. Forged in the Sierra, Cirque Running exists to elevate your running — through professional coaching and expertly crafted trips across the Range of Light and California.

Subscribe now

One of the main attractions of Death Valley National Park, Zabriskie Point is a must do trail run you'll be stoked to have ticked off during your visit.

There are two ways to approach this run with multiple options once you've entered this maze of beautiful rock formations and buttery, single track trails. For the purpose of this video, I started just north of Badwater Basin, which begins at the Golden Canyon trailhead and the location of where they filmed a few scenes from the original Star Wars movie in 1977, A New Hope. Having been raised on the original Star Wars trio (A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi), it was fun to explore a zone with that nostalgic feel.

The trail running up to Zabriskie Point via Golden Canyon is spectacular. While the running down low is not too engaging, the fact that you're running through a movie set made up for that section. Once you enter the single track portion of the trail, the views open up and you are treated with beautiful sights of Golden Canyon and the Panamint Range to the west. Initially I wanted to loop this and add on Gower Gulch as I came back down, but the running and views in Golden Canyon were so incredible that I decide to run this as an out-and-back. Altogether, I logged roughly 5.5 miles and 1,300' feet of elevation gain, so not too long at all. One disclaimer I need to add here, is that this was an incredibly hot run! I recommend starting in the early morning if possible, when temperatures are considerably cooler. It was 96 degrees when I departed my car and I had already run 10 miles earlier in the day up to Mount Perry, so I was pretty wrecked afterwards, mainly due to the heat. Bring plenty of water and electrolytes, fuel, and makes sure to have the appropriate clothing and sunscreen, you'll thank yourself at the end of your run.

After your run, make sure to drop into the Inn at Death Valley, formally known as Furnace Creek Inn. They have a great restaurant to refuel and take a load off after a long morning on the trail. Better yet, book a room for a couple nights and head out on a few day missions to really take in the full the beauty of the park. I'd recommend targeting the springtime for a visit and trying to time the trip with any superblooms that may be occurring, you'll be blown away at the beauty Death Valley has to offer.

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of Zabriskie Point in Death Valley National Park!

Subscribe now

Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Run Gear List

Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts 5”

Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt

Patagonia Duckbill Cap

Suunto Race Titanium

Ultraspire Momentum 2.0 Race Vest

Hoka Mafatte X

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.

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This one comes in as one of my top ten runs in the desert. Mount Perry, located in Death Valley National Park, in the Black Mountains, is a beauty of a trail run that offers stunning, 360 degree views of the entire park. From Badwater Basin and Telescope Peak to the west, all the way to Mount Charleston, outside of Las Vegas to the far east, you can’t beat the views along this beautiful ridge.

Starting at the iconic overlook, Dantes View, you'll pull up to the trailhead with hype levels at an all-time high as you gaze down upon Badwater Basin, some 5,700' feet below. Mount Perry is an out and back, starting from Dantes View, that winds north on a smooth, buttery single track, bobbing and weaving multiple, rocky satellite peaks along the way. As you approach the true summit of Mount Perry, it becomes a bit of a rock hop and scramble as you make your way towards the summit. Altogether, this route is roughly 9.5 miles and 3,000' feet of elevation gain, and pure bliss. Mount Perry is a great option if you're looking to escape the heat of Death Valley, as you never dip below 5,000' feet along the trail.

Treat this like a ridge run to some degree and plan accordingly. My Patagonia Airshed was the perfect top for this run. It was windy most of the time, but the top I have on in the video cuts wind and affords great sun protection. There is no water at Dantes View and no restrooms along the trail. The only vault toilet sits just under the Dantes View parking lot, so make sure to take care of your business beforehand and fill up your flasks before you head towards the trailhead.

After your run, make sure to drop into the Inn at Death Valley, formally known as Furnace Creek Inn. They have a great restaurant to refuel and take a load off after a long morning on the trail. Better yet, book a room for a couple nights and head out on a few day missions to really take in the full the beauty of the park. I'd recommend targeting the springtime for a visit and trying to time the trip with any superblooms that may be occurring, you'll be blown away at the beauty Death Valley has to offer.

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of Mount Perry in Death Valley National Park!

Subscribe now

Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Run Gear List

Patagonia Airshed Pro Pullover

Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts 5”

Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt

Patagonia Duckbill Cap

Suunto Race Titanium

Ultraspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest

Hoka Tafatte X

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.

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One of the most commonly hiked trails in Joshua Tree National Park, the Boy Scout Trail is one trail you'll want to make sure you check out during your visit to this obscure land of quartz-monzonite filled jumbo rocks and Joshua Tree's.

The Boy Scout Trail is about as good as it gets when it comes to desert trail running. Best ran during the winter months due to searing temperatures in the summer, the Boy Scout Trail is an out and back, clocking in at 16.5 miles roundtrip, with a moderate elevation gain at just under 2,000' feet.

There are two different trailheads to depart from so choose whichever adventure is calling to you. For those looking to get the elevation gain out of the way first, you'll want to start in Indian Cove as I did in this video which resides just outside of Joshua Tree National Park proper. One advantage to this option is you save on the park entrance fee and knock out nearly all the gain on the first half of the run. Your second trailhead option is to head into the park and start at the Keys West trailhead. The running is buttery and fast for much of this trail, with a few shallow sand washes and technical running in the canyon's just below the plateau. It's also an incredibly straight forward trail with no junctions to look for and plenty of signs.

There's no toilets or running water along this route so come prepared. While each segment is only 8.25 miles from point to point, you traverse the backcountry, so make sure you have plenty of water, electrolytes, and fuel for the outing. As you'll have seen in this video, I even brought poles just in case I needed, which I never deployed.

This was one of the more pleasant runs I've done in the desert in a while. As I said, the running is as good as it gets and it's beautiful terrain you traverse with stunning views of the canyon and plateau inside the park. You even have great shots of San Gorgonio to the west, a gem of a peak and one worth adventuring out on for a run in the summertime.

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of the Boy Scout Trail in Joshua Tree National Park!

Subscribe now

Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Run Gear List

Patagonia Airshed Pro Pullover

Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts 5”

Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt

Patagonia Duckbill Cap

Suunto Race Titanium

Ultraspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest

Hoka Tafatte X

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.

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A special place for so many people, Joshua Tree National Park is the crown jewel of California deserts and a park that contains a never ending list of must-do adventures within its high desert landscape.

Panorama Peak is a beautiful out and back, lollipop loop nestled in the western reaches of Joshua Tree National Park, beginning in the Black Rock Campground, the jumping off point for the Joshua Tree Traverse, which meanders it's way through the entire length of the park and clocks in at 37 miles! More to come on that traverse in the future, but for now, we'll be focusing on Panorama Peak.

Clocking in at 7 miles and roughly 1,300' feet of elevation gain, Panorama Peak is an absolutely beautiful trail run with breathtaking views of Joshua Tree National Park and the surrounding, Southern California peaks, San Jacinto and San Gorgonio. If you've never run in the desert, this is the perfect intro for you, and if you're a seasoned desert rat, you'll be happy to add this to the list of runs if you've never been out that way.

The views become increasingly beautiful as you begin your ascent towards Panorama Peak, as you climb out of Black Rock Canyon. Once atop Panorama Peak, you'll see why they've named it this! As I mention in the video, make sure to run the lollipop portion counterclockwise as the single track off the summit is all time and incredibly engaging, you'll be happy you went this way. It's hard to beat a good day of trail running in the winter in Joshua Tree National Park!

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of Panorama Peak in Joshua Tree National Park!

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Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Run Gear List

Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts 5”

Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt

Patagonia Duckbill Cap

Suunto Race Titanium

Raide Research LF 2L Running Belt

Hoka Tecton X3

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.

Subscribe now

It’s hard to beat a good ol’ fashioned, straight forward loop that exceed 10 miles. As many would know, you have to get creative in Southern California to find loops like this. Pamo Valley to Boden Canyon via Orosco Ridge is the perfect option for those looking to get some good mileage, with decent gain, in very runnable terrain.

Boden Canyon Ecological Reserve is a well known gem that resides just to the north of Ramona, in San Diego County. As usual, there are many options, and one enticing variation that I discuss in the video, which is to extend this loop to make it nearly 15 miles. That 15 mile variation took myself and a good running friend through some terrain that was a bit precarious and uninviting, so I do not recommend it. You will see in the video, once you top out Orosco Ridge, you have the option to head north to extend the run and loop it in 15 miles, or to head south which is what I do in this video and make the run 10 miles. Choose your own adventure, but I do recommend the 10 mile variation in this video. The elevation gain is right in the sweet spot as well, clocking in at 1,400’!

You can run this loop in either direction, but I would recommend counterclockwise as it suits trail running better. The fire road as you leave Pamo Valley and ascend towards Orosco Ridge is at a perfect grade, and once you drop into Boden Canyon Ecological Reserve, the running continues to be engaging, very runnable, and incredibly scenic. Make sure to pay attention to the sharp left switchback you need to take as you exit Boden Canyon, which loops you onto some beautiful single track as you make your way back towards the trailhead and parking lot. Definitely a run worth doing if you’re looking for some mileage in a cool zone. Big thanks to Sam for giving me the beta on this run, appreciate it!

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of Boden Canyon via Pamo Valley and Orosco Ridge in San Diego!

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Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Run Gear List

Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts 5”

Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt

Patagonia Duckbill Cap

Suunto Race Titanium

Ultraspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest

Hoka Tecton X3

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.

Subscribe now

One of the more scenic trail runs I’ve done in a while, Stonewall Peak, located in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, in San Diego county, is an absolute must for those seeking beautiful sights, captivating single track, and an escape from the lower elevation trails of San Diego.

Coming in at 5.5 miles and 1,200’ feet of elevation gain, Stonewall Peak is a great option for anyone looking to get a quick run at some elevation (Stonewall tops out at 5,730’), and looking for a change of scenery from your every day trails closer to the city. While it might be a stretch, the loop we added towards the end of the video reminds me of Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite to some extent. The single track running once you come off the mountain and loop back to the campground is absolutely beautiful and worth the drive alone. There are endless options up in Cuyamaca, so break out the map and start plotting some longer runs, we’ll be sure to do the same and post soon!

There are a couple ways to ascend Stonewall Peak. The most common is parking in the Paso Picacho campground parking lot, across the street from Stonewall Peak, and beginning your run from that trailhead. Note, there is a $10 parking fee for this. I always like to support parks where I can. There are other parking options you can explore that would put you starting further to the north and ascending the northern flanks of Stonewall Peak as well. The most commonly traveled trail to the summit is from the Paso Picacho campground and is typically treated as an out and back. For this video, once we came off the summit, we continued on and made a loop of the outing, running it counterclockwise. As I say in the video, if I did this again, I would do it clockwise as the running would probably be a bit more fluid coming off the summit. Either way, you can’t go wrong with this run.

Stonewall Peak’s historic location (Stonewall Mine) was once a hot spot for gold mining for a few years during the gold rush, beginning in 1869 and ending in 1891. The town of Cuyamaca was established during this time and gold miners extracted roughly 7,000 pounds of gold! Pretty cool little back story to this area.

On your way out, make sure to drop into the town of Julian if you have the time and support the local businesses. There are plenty of great places to eat, grab a coffee, or to shop at. Another spot well worth the drop in is Dudley’s Bakery, just to the west of Julian in the small town of Santa Isabel. The fall is a great time of year to visit Julian and Santa Ysabel, whether you’re looking for a place to pick apples, pumpkin patch with the kids, or check out the leaves changing color, you’ll be happy you made the trek up.

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of Stonewall Peak in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, located in San Diego!

Subscribe now

Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Run Gear List

Patagonia Airshed Pro Pullover

Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts 5”

Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt

Patagonia Duckbill Cap

Suunto Race Titanium

Raide Research LF 2L Running Belt

Hoka Mafate X

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.

Subscribe now

A hidden gem nestled just outside of the town of Julian, in the local mountains of San Diego, Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve is a beautiful area that hosts incredible trails, studded with manzanita groves and flourishing California Oaks. The scenery alone is worth the trek, but the views down into Anza-Borrego to the east is the real treat and will leave you day dreaming of all the adventures still to be had.

While a relatively short out and back, Volcan Mountain packs a punch at 5.5 miles roundtrip and 1,400’+ of elevation gain. A good portion of the trail is steep, and isn’t that runnable, but it does flatten out and open up the higher you get while you wind your way through open grasslands towards the summit. Make sure to take the side trail we show you in the video, Five Oaks Trail. It’s a beautiful variation that will give you a little more mileage for the day and great views of the town of Julian just to the south.

Make sure to drop into the town of Julian if you have the time and support the local businesses. There are plenty of great places to eat, grab a coffee, or to shop at. Another spot well worth the drop in is Dudley’s Bakery, just to the west of Julian in the small town of Santa Isabel. The fall is a great time of year to visit Julian and Santa Ysabel, whether you’re looking for a place to pick apples, pumpkin patch with the kids, or check out the leaves changing color, you’ll be happy you made the trek up.

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of Volcan Mountain, in the small town of Julian, located in San Diego county!

Subscribe now

Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Run Gear List

Patagonia Airshed Pro Pullover

Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts 5”

Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt

Patagonia Duckbill Cap

Suunto Race Titanium

Raide Research LF 2L Running Belt

Hoka Mafate X

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.

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There’s nothing better than sharing some trail time with our furry family members. With a storm brewing, and knowing we had to get the pup out for some exercise, I figured the Ramona Grasslands Preserve in North County, San Diego would be a great place for a quick trail rip with our nearly 4 year old labradoodle, Bodie.

What the Ramona Grasslands Preserve lacks in distance and elevation gain, it makes up for in scenery and perfectly groomed trails. Clocking in at a mere 3.5 miles, and only 350’ feet of elevation gain, while the distance is short, the views are well worth visit. Once at the northernmost end of the larger loop, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views to the east that capture the local San Diego mountain skyline, with peaks like Cuyamaca dominating horizon.

As I mention in the video, this is a very popular trail and easy to access, so plan accordingly. If coming on a weekend, be ready to share the trail with many outdoor enthusiasts. It’s also an equestrian trail, so you may be privy to sharing the trail with some local horses! One pro tip is to visit this area in the spring when the grass is greener and the flowers are bountiful, it’s a sight to see. A second pro tip, for all you dog lovers that enjoy sharing some quality trail time with your furry friends, soft flasks are a great option to use as a hydration system for your pup! Make sure to be respectful of this area if you bring a dog and carry poop bags on you at all times. And do yourself a favor and make sure to check out the zoomies at 3:52, nothing beats a good zoom episode!

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of the Ramona Grasslands in North County San Diego!

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Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Run Gear List

Patagonia Airshed Pro Pullover

Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts 5”

Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt

Patagonia Duckbill Cap

Suunto Race Titanium

Raide Research LF 2L Running Belt

Hoka Mafate X

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.

Subscribe now

While I’ve run Mount Woodson at least 500+ times over the years, the Fry-Koegel trail was a new variation I had always wanted to explore and finally took it upon myself to venture out onto. Needless to say, the Fry-Koegel trail did not disappoint and is now one of my favorite variations to take to the summit of Mount Woodson. If you’re looking for a trail less traveled to reach the summit of Mount Woodson and the famous Potato Chip Rock, then this is the trail for you!

Clocking in at roughly 1,600’ feet of elevation gain in just over 6 miles, the Fry-Koegel trail variation begins on the east side of Mount Woodson on Highway 67 in the town of Ramona and traverses west until you eventually reach the Lake Poway trail which is the more commonly sought after route to the summit. I didn’t see a single person during my time on the Fry-Koegel variation and was pleasantly surprised to be running through long stretches of shade as I made my way up to the Lake Poway trail. You’ll see I looped this trail by coming down the paved service road but if you’re feeling like some extra miles, my suggestion would be to run this as an out-and-back which should get you to the 7+ mile marker. As always, there are many variations to take when you’re out there and this is a good one, especially on a hot day due to all the shade it provides.

The Fry-Koegel trail was first envisioned by Mike Fry and Norman Koegel back in the 1990’s, potentially well before, and eventually made its way to a vote to be established as an official trail in 1994. I’m sure a good amount of you watching this have explored some variation of Mount Woodson if you’re from Socal, especially San Diego, so there’s a good chance you’ve heard the names Norman Koegel, and more specifically Mike Fry. Mike has been a long time trail visionary and developer in North County, San Diego and still to this day you can find him out after a good rain restoring trails and putting in his time to ensure we all have beautiful routes to run, hike bike, and recreate on. Whenever you see someone putting in the time and effort to restore a trail, make sure to stop and thank them. Big thanks to Mike, Norman, and all the Poway Trails Committee volunteers (including my father-in-law, Terry) who continue to develop, restore, and maintain our trail systems in North County, San Diego.

One thing to note, I’ve heard the residents who have homes tucked up against the Fry-Koegel trail aren’t enthusiastic about the new parking lot going in on Highway 67 to accommodate hikers who choose to hike the paved service road to the top. Please be sure to be respectful of these residents as you pass by their backyard if you decide to take this route, they’ll appreciate it.

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of Mount Woodson and Potato Chip Rock via the Fry-Koegel trail in San Diego County!

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Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Run Gear List

Craft Pro Trail Short Tights 2

Craft Collective Bi-Blend Tee Shirt

Ciele Go Cap

Suunto Race Titanium

Raide Research LF 2L Running Belt

Hoka Mafate X

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.

Subscribe now

A popular trail run and hike for anyone located in inland North County, San Diego, Black Mountain rewards those who reach the summit with incredible views of coastal San Diego, from Oceanside down to La Jolla. Summer time temps can be hot in the local town of Rancho Penasquitos where Black Mountain resides, but the mountain also sits in the perfect location to receive a nice coastal breeze in the afternoon and into the evening.

While not the most impressive trail as far as aesthetics are concerned, the views are worth the run. There are many options to get to the summit of Black Mountain but for the sake of this video, we chose the most common which is a fire road to the top. All together you'll clock roughly 4 miles round trip on this out and back and will gain just under 800' of elevation gain. As I say in the video, the views alone are worth it, but if you are looking for a good hill to run some higher intensity intervals on, Black Mountain is an excellent choice.

Black Mountain is a very popular mountain biking zone so be prepared to see lots of our two-wheeled friends on any given weekend. There are multiple trails that connect to the fire road we run that afford mountain bikers and hikers alike the ability to lengthen their day out on the trail. If you are looking to extend your run and do a longer distance, there are multiple entry points in many of the surrounding neighborhoods. Feel free to drop us a comment if you are interested in any of the alternate routes.

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of Black Mountain in the town of Rancho Penasquitos in San Diego!

Subscribe now

Cirque Running's other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Run Gear List

Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts 5"

Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt

Patagonia Duckbill Cap

Suunto Race Titanium

Raide Research LF 2L Running Belt

Hoka Mafate X

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.

Subscribe now

A main attraction in San Diego and one worth the visit, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a beautiful State Park located between La Jolla and Del Mar in the coastal regions of San Diego.

There’s a good chance if you live in San Diego that you’ve been to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, and if you haven’t, then maybe this video will inspire you to get out there! If you’re from out of town, then maybe this will motivate you to come visit San Diego to hike or run in this beautiful sandstone State Park in California. Since I’d hike and ran in this park many times, I thought it would be fun to add some mileage by adding in an additional trail, that being the Marsh Trail, located just outside of the park in the Los Penasquitos Lagoon.

Clocking in at 8 miles, with only 500’ feet of elevation gain, this out and back, lollipop run was an absolute blast and encompassed many fun things along the way, from wide open single track marsh running, to weaving through the sandstone cliffs of Torrey Pines Natural State Reserve, to running on the beach during a high tide (check your tides before committing!), and so much more. There are a few ways you can tackle Torrey Pines... One being to simply park at the northern parking lot by Torrey Pines State Beach (be prepared to pay a parking fee) and to run just the loop section of the lollipop which has about half the mileage, or alternatively, you can park where I did for this video which was closer to Sorrento Valley where the parking is free and the single track running is as good as it’s gets for coastal dirt surfing.

As you would have seen in the video, there are a few things to take note of, one being that I had to cross Highway 101 once the Marsh Trail ended. For those hesitant to do something like this, my suggestion is to just run the loop section at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. The other thing to note, is that when I crossed over the highway and proceeded to enter the park, I crossed a section of trail that was closed to plant rehabilitation. I didn’t even notice the sign until I started editing the video so please make sure to enter the park via the drive way to the north. And lastly, time your run during a mid to low tide! I knew the tide was high and heading out but I should have waited at least one more hour to have more beach to run on. I grew up surfing Torrey Pines so I’m very comfortable with the ocean, and this zone in general, but for those with a fear of the ocean, you’ll want to run this on a mid to low tide.

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in San Diego!

Subscribe now

Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Run Gear List

Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts 5”

Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt

Patagonia Duckbill Cap

Suunto Race Titanium

Raide Research LF 2L Running Belt

Hoka Mafate X

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.

Subscribe now

Located in Solana Beach, along the coast in North County, San Diego, Annie’s Canyon plays host to one of the more unique landscapes in San Diego, that being a sandstone slot canyon, tucked away on the southern end of the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve. While the video we are posting here is a mere 2.75 miles and 550’ feet of elevation gain, there are many options within the San Elijo Lagoon to extend your run as long as you want, and I encourage you to do so. This pristine ecological reserve is a sight to see and beautiful place to soak up the San Diego coast line. While Annie’s Canyon proper is only around a quarter mile in length, it’s a fun adventure to embark on as you twist and turn through these narrow corridors that eventually top out with beautiful views of the San Elijo Lagoon and sights to the north. Pro tip, make sure to head over to Seaside Market in Cardiff by the Sea after your run and pick yourself up some Cardiff Crack, it’s the best tri tip in San Diego and well worth the detour.

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of Annie’s Canyon in Solana Beach in San Diego County!

Subscribe now

Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Run Gear List

Path Projects Sykes AT 5” Shorts

Craft Collective Bi-Blend Tee Shirt

Mammoth Trailfest hat

Suunto Race Titanium

Raide Research LF 2L Running Belt

Hoka Mafate X

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.

Subscribe now

A hidden gem nestled in the northeast corner of inland North County, San Diego, Daley Ranch is an absolute must for any trail runners looking for that weekend long run on a continuous, single loop trail system with engaging terrain and incredible views.

We definitely can’t take all the credit for this awesome loop. While we’ve explored this region many times over the years, the trail system we’re previewing here is the official course of the Ranch 50k and Half Marathon, presented by Second Wind Trail Running, that runs every February in the town of Escondido, which is where Daley Ranch resides. The course has been masterfully crafted by the Second Wind Trail Running team and is an absolute blast for anyone looking to gain some good mileage with relatively little gain compared to other ultramarathons. Don’t let the lower elevation gain fool you though! While clocking in at 16.5 miles and 2,400’ feet, this course can catch even the best of runners off guard. The loop is remote for San Diego trail running, exposed for much of the time, and waterless. Be prepared to carry plenty of fuel and water on you for the day because you are out there!

Logistically speaking, this is a doozy! We’ve done our best to pinpoint each turn in the video which is a lot. Daley Ranch hosts 25 miles of trails within a 3,200 acre conservation area, so there are lots of trails to choose from. There’s even the beautiful Dixon Lake that you can fish at and rock climbing is also available for those looking to get off the deck. Whatever your passion is, Daley Ranch has something for everyone.

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This one is especially important if you want to do the exact loop for the Ranch 50k and Half Marathon. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of Daley Ranch in San Diego County!

Subscribe now

Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

The Ranch 50k & Half Marathon Website

Run Gear List

Craft Pro Trail Short Tights 2

Craft Collective Bi-Blend Tee Shirt

Ciele Go Cap

Suunto Race Titanium

Raide Research LF 2L Running Belt

Hoka Tecton X3

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.

Subscribe now

Another quick trail rip to check out in Mammoth Lakes Basin is Heart Lake, located at the Coldwater Creek trailhead that accesses Duck Pass. Heart Lake is a 2.5 mile roundtrip out and back that has an elevation gain of nearly 500’ feet. Not only is this a great little strike mission to open up the lungs and catch views of the entire Mammoth Lakes Basin, the trail runs along the old Mammoth Consolidated Gold Mine which is a historic site you should check out if you have the time. Unfortunately it was raining on us this day so the views were a little less spectacular, but you get the idea.

While Heart Lake itself is quite beautiful and not too busy compared to some of the other lakes in the area, the real pleasure for me running this trail was how it threads some beautiful aspen groves along the way. If any of you are familiar with the seasonal leaf changes when fall rolls around in the Eastern Sierra, then you’ll know just how special aspens groves are. You can see in the video they are just starting to change color but not quite there yet. Peak time in the Sierra to check out the leaves changing is typically from the end of September through October, it’s one of my favorite times to be in the Sierra. Being there for Mammoth Trailfest, we were early by a week or two but still had the privilege to see some leaves changing in town. Fun Fact: aspen groves are typically a single organism, meaning the roots are all connected underneath as opposed to normal trees which have individual root systems, pretty cool! If running through beautiful groves of aspens are on the bucket list for you, which it should be, then make sure to check out the Eastern Sierra Fall Color Guide using this link to plan your trip, you’ll be happy you did! Eastern Sierra Fall Color Guide Link.

Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.

Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of Heart Lake in Mammoth Lakes!

Subscribe now

Cirque Running’s other sites and media channels

Website: cirquerunning.com

GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files

Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching

Instagram: @cirquerunning

Facebook: Cirque Running

Run Gear List

Patagonia Airshed Pro Pullover

Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts 5”

Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt

Patagonia Duckbill Cap

Suunto Race Titanium

Raide Research LF 2L Running Belt

Hoka Mafate X

Goodr sunglasses

Your online digital guide to trail running in the Sierra and Southern California. Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through digital dirt surfing, elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.

Subscribe now