The Reservoir Dogs Trail Run returns to Orinda, California on Saturday, October 10th, offering runners a scenic tour of the Briones Reservoir area along EBMUD trails that are usually permit-only for this special event. Participants will start and finish at San Pablo Dam Road in El Sobrante, running through dense woods, open hillsides with sweeping views, and fire roads around both the San Pablo and Briones Reservoirs.
On race morning, runners can expect a cool but comfortable temperature range between 12°C and 23.2°C, typical for late October in Orinda. The air will be humid at about 69%, and there is minimal risk of rain with an average rainfall of just 0.7mm throughout the day. Trail conditions are firm yet slightly soft underfoot. The Reservoir Dogs Trail Run began as a unique opportunity to circumnavigate Briones Reservoir on trails not typically open to runners, drawing in over two hundred participants annually since its inception five years ago. The event supports local trail maintenance and community recreation programs through entry fees while providing an immersive experience of the East Bay’s natural landscapes. The course begins at San Pablo Dam Road where runners will embark on a route that includes single-track paths and fire roads around Briones Reservoir, featuring rolling terrain with some steep ascents and descents. Aid stations are well-placed along the trail to provide necessary hydration and energy refills for longer distances such as the Half Marathon and 35K races. Weather conditions in October generally feature mild temperatures ranging from a low of 12°C early morning to a high around midday, with an average humidity level ensuring runners stay hydrated. The sun will be out most of the day providing about nine hours of sunshine but UV index remains moderate at four, requiring some protection against exposure. The Reservoir Dogs Trail Run offers participants various distance options including a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and 35K race. Early bib pickup takes place on Friday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Sports Basement in Berkeley for those who prefer not to wait until the morning of October 10th. Registration is open via https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=138842 with fees ranging from $60.00 for a 5K entry up to $105.00 for the full 35K distance. The last day to register online without incurring an additional late fee is September 30th, after which on-site registration will be available starting at 7:00 AM with proof of payment required. For race day logistics, bib pickup occurs from 7:00 AM until the start time for each distance. The parking lot near San Pablo Dam Road charges a $7 fee and accepts both exact change and credit cards; carpooling is encouraged to minimize traffic congestion in the area. All participants must adhere strictly to age requirements set by race organizers. The Reservoir Dogs Trail Run, held annually on October 10th in Orinda, California, provides runners with an unparalleled experience of East Bay natural beauty while contributing to local trail maintenance efforts and community programs. This well-regarded event is a true celebration of the region’s diverse landscapes for any running enthusiast looking to explore beyond city limits.
Races Offered
1/2 Marathon
Oct 10, 2026
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Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
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$95.00
35K
Oct 10, 2026
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Distance —
35K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$105.00
5K
Oct 10, 2026
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Distance —
5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
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$60.00
10K
Oct 10, 2026
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Distance —
10K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:30
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$75.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Orinda.
thermostatTemperature
12.0° / 23.2°
wb_sunnyFeels like
10.6° / 21.1°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 37m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
0.7 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
7.6 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
69.6%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:18
nightlight
Sunset
18:29
About Orinda
Learn more about the host city, Orinda.
Orinda is a wealthy suburban refuge of most of the lawyers and bankers in Contra Costa County in the state of California.