Kokanee Trail Runs

Kokanee Trail Runs take place in South Lake Tahoe, California, on October 4, 2026, organized by the Tahoe Mountain Milers. Four trail distances are on the program: the half marathon (13.1 miles) starts at 9:00 AM, the 10K (6.2 miles) and the 5K (3.1 miles) both start at 9:30 AM, and a half-mile race goes off at 10:30 AM.

The spread from a half mile to a half marathon makes this a genuine family event where kids, casual runners and serious trail runners can all race the same morning. South Lake Tahoe sits above 6,000 feet, so even the shorter distances will feel harder than at sea level, and runners coming from lower elevation should adjust their pace expectations and drink more than usual in the dry mountain air. The half marathon is a good goal for road runners moving to trails or for trail runners who want a fall race with mountain scenery and altitude without ultra distance. Ten to twelve weeks of preparation with a weekly long run on trails and one hilly session will cover it. Early October in Tahoe often brings cold mornings and mild afternoons, so a light layer for the start is worthwhile.