SAVE THE DATE: 27th Annual Holcomb Valley Trail Run Scheduled for Saturday, June 10, 2023
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SAVE THE DATE: 27th Annual Holcomb Valley Trail Run Scheduled for Saturday, June 10, 2023

Updated: Jun 23, 2023


Bears Do It Better
Bear's Running A Marathon

Big Bear, CA - Mark your calendars for the highly anticipated 27th Annual Holcomb Valley Trail Run, which will take place on Saturday, June 10, 2023. This event offers a remarkable trail running experience along the renowned Pacific Crest Trail, showcasing the stunning beauty of Big Bear Lake. Participants can select from three challenging distances: 33 Miles, 15 Miles, or 7 Miles.

Registration for the race will open on February 14, 2023. To take advantage of early bird pricing, it is recommended to sign up before March 1, 2023. As the race date approaches, registration fees will increase, so early registration is encouraged to secure a spot and enjoy cost savings.

In addition to runners, volunteers play a crucial role in making this event a success. Individuals interested in volunteering will earn race credits that can be applied towards future Holcomb Valley Trail Runs. To obtain more information about volunteering, please complete the form available on our website. We extend our sincere appreciation to all volunteers for their invaluable support.

For those who have earned credits from volunteering at the Kodiak, it is possible to apply those credits towards registering for this race by contacting us via email. Please note that this process is not automatic within Ultrasignup.

Participants should familiarize themselves with the event's deferral and refund policy. Refunds will not be provided; however, registration can be deferred for one year by emailing us before April 1. Afterward, deferrals can be made until June 1, provided the participant volunteers at this year's event.

In the unlikely scenario of event cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances such as acts of God, community disasters, fires, severe weather events, emergencies, or any other issues related to public safety, refunds cannot be guaranteed. A refund percentage will be calculated to cover non-recoverable expenses. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in regards to this policy.

Race Information:

  • Registration & Packet Pickup: On-site registration and packet pickup will take place at Meadows Edge Picnic Area in Big Bear Lake, CA.

    • Friday, June 9, 2023, from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm

    • Saturday, June 10, 2023, from 6:00 am to 7:00 am


  • Start Times:

    • 33 MILE: 7:30 am

    • 15 MILE: 7:45 am

    • 7 MILE: 7:55 am


  • Start/Finish Location: Meadows Edge Picnic Area in Big Bear Lake, CA

  • Cut-off Times: The race has a 10-hour time limit. Participants running the 33 Mile distance must reach the Aid Station at Mile 20.8 by 1:15 pm, which serves as a strict cut-off point. The race organizers reserve the right to remove participants from the course if they fall behind the required pace to finish within the allotted time.

  • Aid Stations: Along the course, there are multiple well-stocked aid stations, including 7 for the 33 Mile distance, 3 for the 15 Mile distance, and 1 for the 7 Mile distance. The aid stations offer a variety of sweet and salty snacks, hydration drinks, and water.

Participants in the 33 Mile distance have the option to utilize drop bags, which can be dropped off at the race registration area by 6:45 am. These bags will be transported to the Aid Station at Van Dusen and will be accessible twice during the race, at Mile 14.9 and Mile 27.5. It is important to note that drop bags will not be returned until later in the day, so participants should avoid including items needed immediately after finishing the race. Each participant must provide their own bag, and drop bags must be submitted at registration by 6:45 am.

The course itself offers breathtaking views, combining the scenic Pacific Crest Trail with portions along Forest Service roads in the Holcomb Valley. Detailed course maps are available on our website for reference.

Elevation Gain/Loss:

  • 33 MILE: +4,150ft/-4,150ft

  • 15 MILE: +1,950ft/-1,950ft

  • 7 MILE: +1,100ft/-1,100ft

Spectators are welcome to support the participants and visit the Aid Stations along the course. However, it is important to adhere to specific guidelines to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all attendees. These guidelines include obeying speed limits, parking off the road entirely, following instructions from Aid Station staff, and using high-clearance vehicles (except at the Start/Finish and Mile 20.8 stations) to access the stations.

Detailed driving directions will be provided in the near future to assist spectators in reaching various locations along the course.

The Holcomb Valley Trail Run has a rich history dating back to 1997 when it was founded by Gary and Pam Kalina. In 2012, Team Big Bear took over the organization and timing of the event, and for the 2023 edition, Susie Schmelzer and Harald Zundel with Team Kodiak will continue the tradition under the guidance of Tom Spiegel and Team Big Bear. The event serves as a fundraiser for the local volunteer search and rescue organization, with over 20 volunteers contributing to various aspects of the event's operation, including aid stations, course marking, communication, safety, and first aid.

For more information about the Holcomb Valley Trail Run and to register for the event, please visit our website at [insert website link]. Stay updated with the latest news and announcements by following us on social media.

Contact: Theodore Trentman Community Representative www.BigBearCity.com Theodore@BigBearCity.com 213-948-3165

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