The first day of summer is quickly approaching, and it will be fall before you know it, which is why you need to sign up for the Stairway to Heaven 5K and 15K now! Held in Mission Trail Regional Park, the Stairway to Heaven 5K and 10K will begin at 7AM on August 14.

If you’re new to trail running, opt for the 5K (and pick up fitted trail running shoes at our San Diego location), as the Stairway to Heaven 15K is a hard, hilly and technical course—albeit a very rewarding and challenging trail run. The 5K crosses over the San Diego River, passing the historic Old Mission Dam before entering Oak Canyon, at which point it becomes more narrow and features a short technical part. Insider tip: you will be required to “trail hop” around rocks at this point. A mixture of double and single track trails with a half of a mile on-road section, the 5K is flat and fast overall.

If you’re up to the challenge and want to tackle the Stairway to Heaven 15K, you will ascend a steep, ¾ mile hill at mile two. Insider tip: the first aid station is located at the top. Once you reach the top, you’ll wind down into the canyon on a combo of narrow single track and fire road trails. After passing the second aid station, you will descend into Suyott Wash towards South Fortuna Mountain and the “Stairway to Heaven” from which the race gets its name.

Once you reach the stairway, you’ll ascent South Fortuna via steps that are carved into the mountain. It may be a treacherous climb, but the views of the valley are worth it. After cruising by the third aid station (also the first), you will descend the steep ¾ mile hill and enter rocky and technical Oak Canyon. Don’t worry; things will get easier as you make your way over historic Old Mission Dam and the San Diego River. You’ll turn left for a brief half-mile of road and finish with a section of double track roads that bring you to the finish area.

Packets must be picked up at the San Diego Running Institute August 12 (from 11AM to 6PM) to August 13 (from 10AM to 6PM). Check back for more San Diego trail running events.