Gateway to Yosemite 5k/10k 2026 — Merced, CA

Date
September 20, 2026
Location
Merced, CA
Venue
3400 San Lorenzo Way
Start Time
8:00 AM
Entry Fee
$15.00 – $40.00
Events
5k Run/Walk, 10k Run, Parent and Me 1K
Includes
T-Shirt
Register NowRegistration Open

Gateway to Yosemite 5K/10K takes place on September 20, 2026, in Merced, California, at 3400 San Lorenzo Way. The event offers three distances: a 1K option, a 5K, and a 10K. The race starts at 8:00 AM. Entry fees range from free to $36.00, making it an affordable option for runners of varying commitment levels. Whether you're looking for a short introductory effort or a longer 10K effort, this race provides flexible distance choices. After racing, you'll be well-positioned near Merced for accessing the Yosemite region if you're combining your race trip with broader travel plans in the Sierra Nevada area.

From the Race Organizer
Race Location Fahrens Park Disc Golf Course 3400 San Lorenzo Way Merced, CA 95348 Lace up those running shoes for the fourth Gateway to Yosemite 5K/10K on September 20, 2026! Fahrens Park offers a spacious area for spectators and amazing some amazing trails through the disc golf course and dog park with the 10K turnaround point at General Vang Pao Park. This year's funds will go toward a new home for Elroy and his tortoise friends at the Merced Applegate Zoo. Proceeds will support the development of a new tortoise exhibit designed to provide a safe, comfortable, and engaging habitat for the zoo’s tortoises. The improved exhibit will also allow visitors to see and learn about Elroy and his friends throughout the year. A huge thank you to the initial exhibit sponsors, Merced Breakfast Lions! Every registration, donation, and step taken brings us closer to giving Elroy and his friends the home they deserve. Together, we can cross the finish line and make this new exhibit a reality! Every Pace Wins the Race! *Participants 13 and younger must be accompanied by an adult on the race course.*

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Merced, CA. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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Gateway to Yosemite 5k/10k 2026 — Merced, CA

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for September 20.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Merced, 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

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Gateway to Yosemite 5k/10k 2026 — Merced, CA?

Gateway to Yosemite 5k/10k 2026 — Merced, CA takes place on September 20, 2026. The race is held in Merced, California.

Where is Gateway to Yosemite 5k/10k 2026 — Merced, CA held?

Gateway to Yosemite 5k/10k 2026 — Merced, CA is held at 3400 San Lorenzo Way in Merced, California.

Where can I find hotels near Gateway to Yosemite 5k/10k 2026 — Merced, CA?

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