Run with the Burros
A unique Pack Burro Race & Trail Run held on the 2nd Saturday of April. Distances of 5, 10, 18, and 26.2 miles. Run with or without a donkey. All proceeds benefit California Breakfast Burritos and the Forever Home Donkey Rescue & Sanctuary, charitable, 100% volunteer organizations.
News & Updates
NEW LOCATION — Same Format, Same Fun, Same Energy
The previous race site was sold to a mining company, so we’re moving the event 12 miles east to Ridgecrest. Pending approval, we have secured a much better venue:
Cerro Coso Community College for the start and finish. It may sound like a small thing, but on-site water, electricity, shade, and restrooms are a genuine upgrade. The trails remain outstanding with challenging hills, historic mines, and sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada and Mojave Desert. We promise a memorable experience and hope you can join us in April.
Start Times
Start times are 7am for the longer distances followed by the 10 mile distance a few minutes later. The 5 mile run will start at 7:30 am.
Please see the Race Website for full details including maps, pack burro rules, lodging, and much much more.
2025 Race Video
Distances
There are 4 distances, a 26.2 mile trail marathon, an 18 mile, a 10 mile, and an Introductory 5 mile distance. Distances are approximate, as it is the terrain that really matters. All are open to burro/runner teams, or runners without burros competing in separate categories on the same course. There is a slightly staggered start with burros starting first.
Accommodations
Hotels
Days Inn Discounted Rate
We’ve arranged a special discounted rate at the Days Inn (201 W Inyokern Road, Ridgecrest) exclusively for Run With The Burros participants. Last year’s rate was $90.17 with no additional fees. We will post the updated rate when available.
To book, call (760) 446-2551 and mention Run With The Burros. For direct inquiries, call (760) 534-2283.
Ridgecrest offers a wide variety of hotels, restaurants, and camping options to suit any budget. Visit the Ridgecrest Area Visitors & Convention Bureau for a full listing.
Camping
For a low-cost, low-maintenance desert stay, please visit and follow the guidelines on our local BLM office’s camping information page. While camping and racing, please be mindful of our local Mohave ground squirrels and desert tortoises — brief fact sheets on both are available
here.
Burros
For those traveling with burros, contact us directly at RunWithTheBurros@gmail.com and we’ll be happy to help. Burro camping is available Friday and Saturday at the start/finish area, with water, corral pens, and possibly showers. This camping is for burros and their handlers only. Additional nights can be accommodated at California Breakfast Burritos — just reach out.
Other Resources
Please see the Race Website for full details including maps, pack burro rules, lodging, and much much more.
California Breakfast Burritos Practice opportunities and burros in California
Facebook Group for this run
Forever Home Donkey Rescue & Sanctuary Practice opportunities and burros in Arizona
Redonkulous Ranch Practice opportunities and burros in Colorado.
Ridgecrest Bureau of Land Management Horse & Burro Corrals Wild burro adoptions
Event's current local time: 3:27 PM PT
