The Magnolia Magic River Trail Run takes place in Pilot Hill, California on December 12th, 2026, offering a range of distances for runners to enjoy the scenic trails at Cronan Ranch. This event is organized by Troy’s California Trail Runs and marks its first year with participants expected from across the region and beyond. The race venue features stony dirt paths that wind through steep hills overlooking Lake Maggiore on the eastern edge of Pilot Hill, providing a challenging yet picturesque setting for runners. On race morning at 7am, temperatures hover around an average of 8 degrees Celsius, feeling more like 6.8 due to typical December winds averaging 7.5 km/h and humidity levels reaching 79.6%. Runners can expect firm but slightly soft trail conditions underfoot. The Magnolia Magic River Trail Run aims to celebrate the beauty and challenges of California's natural landscapes while supporting local causes. This inaugural event is anticipated to attract hundreds of participants eager to explore the trails at Cronan Ranch, which offers stunning vistas and rigorous terrain for runners looking for an authentic outdoor experience in winter conditions.
Registration for the Magnolia Magic River Trail Run can be completed at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=139962 with fees ranging from $30 for the Kids Run to $135 for the challenging 50K distance. The registration deadline is November 24th, giving runners ample time to secure their spots and prepare. Bib pickup will take place on race morning at Magnolia Ranch Trailhead starting at 6am sharp where participants must show a photo ID matching the name used during registration. Age requirements vary by event but generally all distances are open to children over six years old with parental supervision for shorter runs like the Kids Run and 5K. Participants should arrive prepared for cold temperatures, wind, and potential light precipitation as December mornings in Pilot Hill can be brisk. Trail conditions will be firm yet soft underfoot, ideal for those accustomed to running on natural terrain. The Magnolia Ranch Trailhead is located off Highway 126 near the intersection with Cronan Road. The Magnolia Magic River Trail Run returns to Pilot Hill, California on December 12th, offering runners a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and challenge of winter trails in this scenic part of northern California.
Races Offered
Kids Run
Dec 12, 2026
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Distance —
0.8K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:30
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$30.00
1/2 Marathon
Dec 12, 2026
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Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$95.00
30K
Dec 12, 2026
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Distance —
30K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$110.00
50K
Dec 12, 2026
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Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$135.00
5K
Dec 12, 2026
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Distance —
5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$65.00
7.4 Miler
Dec 12, 2026
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Distance —
11.9K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$80.00
Marathon
Dec 12, 2026
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Distance —
42.2K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$125.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for December in Pilot Hill.
thermostatTemperature
3.4° / 12.6°
wb_sunnyFeels like
0.2° / 10.1°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
6h 14m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
6.6 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
7.5 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Low (2.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
79.6%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
08:14
nightlight
Sunset
17:44
About Pilot Hill
Learn more about the host city, Pilot Hill.
Pilot Hill is an unincorporated community in El Dorado County, California. It is located 13 miles (21 km) west-northwest of Placerville, at an elevation of 1175 feet.
