The new Run with Nature 10K course starts on Stafford Street between the Folsom Public Library and the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary. Runners make a left onto Natoma Street – which will be closed to vehicle traffic – and begin a steady climb, with grades ranging from 1 to 4%. At the end of Natoma Street, runners make a left and cross onto the paved trail bordering the Folsom Lake Crossing; the jaunt up, up, up the bridge is an invigorating 5% grade. As you make the climb, you’ll have spectacular views of the Folsom Dam and the American River Canyon.

Next? Ahhh, sweet reward: a short downhill onto the scenic paved trails of the American River Bike Trail. This jewel of the region plays host to a wide variety of flora and fauna. You’ll run past oak, pine, ash, and California buckeye, wild rose, lupine, poppies and other colorful wildflowers. Lucky runners might spot a wild turkey, graceful egret, or a statuesque deer hiding in the brush. A word to the wise: the trail corridor is also home to poison oak, so it’s best to remain on the paved trail or decomposed granite shoulder at all times; bushwhacking is done at your own itchy peril. And please be kind to the nature you see – remember: this is run with nature, not run over it!! You get the point …

Onward! After the run along the American River Bike Trail the course makes a left, crosses the historic wood-plank Truss Bridge, and heads onto the historic Powerhouse Trail (lots of history in these parts) up a short little incline to reach Leidesdorff Street and makes another left turn. At the end of the road, another steep (but short) trail segment funnels runners onto a gravel pathway at the edge of the Rodeo Arena parking lot. From there, the course transitions to a packed dirt trail leading runners into Folsom City Lions Park and across – whew! -- the finish line. You made it!

Click HERE for Map of 10k and 5k Course.

Click HERE to download 5k/10k/The Wild Way Registration Form.
Click HERE to Register ONLINE.