Fort Bragg Whale Run and Walk 2027 — Fort Bragg, CA

Date
March 20, 2027
Location
Fort Bragg, CA
Venue
Fort Bragg Coast Trail -- South Entrance Noyo Headlands Park
Start Time
7:30 AM
Sunrise
7:16 AM
Entry Fee
$10.00 – $55.00
Events
Half Marathon Run, 10K Run, 5K Run, 5K Fun Walk, Kiddie Race
Includes
T-shirt--option of material* | Performance T-shirt--option of material | Performance T-shirt--long sleeved
View RegistrationOfficial Race Website

The Fort Bragg Whale Run and Walk takes place on the Fort Bragg Coast Trail at the South Entrance of Noyo Headlands Park. This race offers multiple distances to suit different fitness levels: a 400-meter option, 5K, 10K, and half marathon. The event starts early at 7:30 AM on March 20, 2027, giving runners an opportunity to complete their race before the day heats up. Entry fees range from $10 to $55 depending on distance and registration timing. Whether you're running a short 400 meters or tackling the half marathon, you'll be on a coastal trail setting. This variety makes the event accessible to runners of all abilities, from those trying their first timed race to experienced endurance athletes seeking a spring-season goal.

From the Race Organizer
The 39th Annual Whale Run & Walk for 2027! Fort Bragg, Ca is a small, picturesque city on the Pacific Ocean, nestled between sandy beaches and the redwood forest. We are the home of the world famous Glass Beach ! Every year there is a huge Whale Festival on the 3rd weekend of March, and Saturday morning the Whale Run kicks it off! After the Whale Run there are events all over town, including a craft fair; guided whale viewing; clam chowder, beer and wine tasting, entertainment, and music everywhere. See the www.whalerun.org for more information and interesting facts about whales. The local Soroptimist clubs have been holding this race for 39 years , with up to 800 runners participating on a beautiful day on the Mendocino Coast. The ocean and trails are as magnificent as ever and we know you will love the views and all the festivities in town on race day. All runners, walkers, and spectators will enjoy breathtaking whitewater ocean views (including whales) along this year’s new course starting at the Noyo Headlands Park (Cypress Street) on th e Coastal Trail in Fort Bragg, CA Here are the events you can sign up for: 5k-- runners will run north and turn around at or near Compass Rose. 5k-- "Fun" Walkers will follow the 5k runner's route. 10k-- runners dash north past Glass Beach then cross the beautiful Pudding Creek Trestle to the 10K turn around ( 10K map ). 1/2 Marathon--same route as 10k but the turnaround is at MacKerricher State Park. Kiddie run -- 400 meter run in 3 age groups (U5, U7, and U10) There are multiple race age divisions. Note: under 16 run/walkers may enter any race division for a discounted rate at signup. DOGS : We love dogs, but the insurance won't let us add them mixed with runners. You are welcome to walk your dog on the trails before and after the race (on leash). There's a dog park at race HQ on Cypress, by the CV Starr swim/fitness center on Lincoln and Maple, and there's a city-owned dog beach at the end of north harbor drive. FAQ's: Click Here to go to the race website www.whalerun.org and find answers to commonly asked questions about the race, about whales and our Noyo Center for Marine Science "whale bone house", Soroptimists and what they do, what to do in Fort Bragg, and more.

Course & Travel Notes

The Fort Bragg Whale Run and Walk takes place on March 20, 2027, in Fort Bragg, California, with the race starting at 7:30 AM, just 12 minutes after sunrise at 7:18 AM that morning. The venue sits at a modest elevation of 82 feet, and participants should plan for typical early spring coastal weather with highs around 55°F and lows near 41°F, keeping in mind that rain occurs on about 48% of days during this time of year. For those flying in, the nearest airport is Ukiah Municipal Airport (UKI), located 39.1 miles from the race venue.

⛰️ 82 ft elevation☀️ Typically 55°F / 41°F · 48% chance of rain✈️ Ukiah Municipal Airport (UKI) — 39.1 mi

Hotels Near This Race

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Fort Bragg Whale Run and Walk 2027 — Fort Bragg, CA

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for March 20.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Fort Bragg, CA. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Fort Bragg Whale Run and Walk 2027 — Fort Bragg, CA?

Fort Bragg Whale Run and Walk 2027 — Fort Bragg, CA takes place on March 20, 2027. The race is held in Fort Bragg, California.

Where is Fort Bragg Whale Run and Walk 2027 — Fort Bragg, CA held?

Fort Bragg Whale Run and Walk 2027 — Fort Bragg, CA is held at Fort Bragg Coast Trail -- South Entrance Noyo Headlands Park in Fort Bragg, California.

Where can I find hotels near Fort Bragg Whale Run and Walk 2027 — Fort Bragg, CA?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Fort Bragg. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.