Double Dipsea
Double Dipsea: a legendary out-and-back on the iconic Dipsea Trail.
Race Date
Aug 22, 2026
Location
Stinson Beach, CA
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, August 22, 2026
- Location
- Stinson Beach, California
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Out & Back
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Double Dipsea is a punishing yet beautiful out-and-back along the fabled Dipsea Trail, connecting Stinson Beach to Mill Valley and back. First run in 1970, this 55-year-old race draws about 650 runners from 19 states, with a loyal 33% returning year after year.
This is a handicapped race, meaning every runner (except men under 40) gets a head start. The result is a democratic scramble where age and experience level the field—recent winners have ranged from 15 to 67 years old. The course climbs through redwood forests and over coastal hills, offering stunning views of the Pacific.
The atmosphere is intimate and community-driven, with generous cutoffs welcoming all paces. The finish at Stinson Beach is a quiet triumph—no massive crowds, just the satisfaction of conquering one of America's classic trail routes.
Race-provided description
Stinson Beach to Mill Valley and back to Stinson again, entirely on the world-famous Dipsea Trail both ways!
The Double Dipsea has been run 55 times since 1970 and 2026 will be #56.
This is a handicapped race, so everyone (except the male under 40 division) gets a head start. In 2026 our winner was 66 (female) and our top 10 finishers included 3 females and 7 males with ages ranging from 15 to 67. Waves are adjusted each year, so you never know who might cross the line first. But it isn't really about the time, it's about the epic journey. Young and old, fast and slow, all are welcome to start and as long as you can make the generous race cutoffs, you can get it done!
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, August 22, 2026
Start Time
7:00 AM
Giveaway
Race Shirt
Start Location
3512 Shoreline Hwy, Stinson Beach, CA, 94970
Course Info
Course Type
Out & Back
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Coastal, Forest
Difficulty
Hilly
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Quality Score
Standout624 years running
~656 finishers a year
shrinking
33% returning runners
4 timing sources · 8 photos
runners from 19 states
winner 1:52:09
typical high 72°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
56°
Afternoon (High)
72°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.0"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
79%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Double Dipsea?
The Double Dipsea is held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM.
Where does the Double Dipsea take place?
It takes place in Stinson Beach, California.
What distances does the Double Dipsea offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the Double Dipsea course flat and good for a PR?
The Double Dipsea is a hilly, out & back course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
Explore More Journeys
Can't make it to Stinson Beach? Discover other experiences that match your running style.
Search All Races
