How SoCalTrail is building one of LA’s most welcoming trail running communities
When you hear Los Angeles, you might picture congested freeways and endless concrete. But, Los Angeles has a thriving trail community showing up week after week to play on dirt, chase sweeping ocean views, tackle rugged climbs, and soak up sunny SoCal vibes.
One of Southern California’s most community-driven trail race organizations is SoCalTrail, also known for its Tour of LA community trail run series. While SoCalTrail is primarily known for producing trail races throughout Southern California, Tour of LA is its free, inclusive, five-stop series designed to welcome everyone, from seasoned trail veterans to runners experiencing the trails for the very first time.
The real reward, though, is the people. Tour of LA is built around community, encouraging runners to show up together, meet new people, and enjoy the social side of trail running. The buddy system is always encouraged, making it easy for anyone who comes alone to find someone to run with.
We caught up with SoCalTrail Race Director Daniel Weissauer and crew member Jonathan to learn what makes Tour of LA so special, and how thoughtful route planning, clear communication, and strong community values keep runners coming back.
Why Tour of LA was created
For SoCalTrail Race Director Daniel Weissauer, Tour of LA started with the simple goal of making trail running feel more accessible.
“There were four main reasons,” Daniel explained. “We wanted to break down trail running’s main barriers to entry: cost, travel, safety, and knowledge.”
By creating a free community-run series across the greater Los Angeles region, SoCalTrail gave runners a chance to explore new trails with marked routes, experienced Run Leaders, and a welcoming atmosphere that made trying out trail running feel a lot less intimidating.
The series also became a way to celebrate the community that already supported SoCalTrail races throughout the year.
“We put on races every month, and these casual group runs are also celebrations, where we give back to the community that comes out and supports us on race day.”
Safety, fun, and belonging come first
When it comes to organizing a group run, SoCalTrail has one clear priority. “Our main focus is creating a safe and fun experience for everyone in attendance.”
That mindset shows up in everything the team does. Routes are marked and communicated/shared by Run Leaders through the Footpath app ahead of time, pre-run huddles cover key details, and no one is left behind. From the first hello to the final raffle ticket, the emphasis is on shared experience, not pace or performance.
Why knowing the route ahead of time is key
For Tour of LA events, routes are shared weeks in advance with Footpath, and details are reinforced during the pre-run huddle. Still, reviewing the map ahead of time is strongly encouraged.
Knowing the route means fewer wrong turns, less stress, and a safer experience for the entire group. It also gives runners the chance to prepare mentally, choose the right distance, and explore how the route fits into their own training or adventure goals.
This is exactly where tools like Footpath shine, letting runners visualize elevation, key junctions, and terrain before ever stepping on trail.
How SoCalTrail supports all levels
Inclusivity is not just a buzzword at Tour of LA events. It’s built into the structure.
SoCalTrail created dedicated Run Leaders to set the tone and guide runners at multiple paces on each route. Leaders station themselves at major forks to direct traffic and answer questions, while sweepers ensure no one finishes alone. All leaders use Footpath to share the routes with runners beforehand and have the routes pulled up before and during the runs.
This welcoming energy is intentional and designed to make new runners feel supported from the moment they arrive.
“We’re always welcoming and excited for anyone to share the trails with us. That excitement is contagious, even if it’s your first time and you’re nervous.”
More than miles: the Post-Run Hang
The run might be the excuse, but the community is why people stay. After each event, runners rally back at the meetup spot for post-run snacks and drinks. Think fresh fruit, donuts, tamales, and plenty of time to connect. Raffle prizes keep the energy high, often including sponsor gear, free race entries, and even a grand prize pair of fresh trail shoes. It’s casual, social, and very intentional.
Growing the Tour alongside the community
As Tour of LA grew, the series evolved alongside it.
“The Tour quickly outgrew many of the trailheads we showcased in our earlier years,” Daniel shared.
Through relationships with local parks and land managers, SoCalTrail expanded the series to include previews of race courses alongside longtime local favorites. The result is a mix of approachable community runs and authentic race experiences that give runners a taste of SoCalTrail events before ever pinning on a bib.
The five stops of the Tour of LA
Save this list of all five routes!
1. Griffith Park
Why it’s special: The series opener draws the biggest crowd each year. Runners gather at iconic Griffith Park for approachable trail miles, easy access, and legendary post-run tamales. It’s where returning runners and curious newcomers collide in the best way.
2. Red Rock Preview
Distances: 4.7 miles, 6.2 miles, 9.5 miles
Why it’s special: This stop offers a preview of the Red Rock Rumble 10K, the opening race of the Bulldog Challenge Series. Runners get an early taste of what awaits across the 10K, Tough Mugu 25K, and Bulldog Ultra 50K.
3. Brown Mountain
Distances: 8.5 miles, 14 miles
Why it’s special: A Tour favorite that climbs high above Pasadena into the mountains of Altadena. Shaded singletrack, flowing climbs, and the sound of running water make this stop unforgettable, especially meaningful after fires impacted the area in 2025.
4. Top of Reseda
Distances: 6.7 miles, 13.6 miles
Why it’s special: Just minutes from Ventura Blvd., this route feels like a portal to the Santa Monica Mountains. Wide fire roads make it beginner-friendly while still delivering big views and a true trail experience without highly technical terrain.
5. No Name Preview
Distances: 5.9 miles, 11.7 miles
Why it’s special: Starting at Old Agoura Park, this finale brings runners to the western edge of LA County. Rolling hills, panoramic views, and mustard plant sun tunnels create a perfect sendoff to a summer spent on the trails.
The highlight that says it all
For Jonathan, the best part of the Tour of LA isn’t a specific trail or distance, but the people.
One runner joined the Griffith Park opener as their first SoCalTrail event. By the end of the Tour, he had attended all five runs, volunteered at aid stations, and pinned on a race bib, all because he fell in love with the community. That’s the power of lowering the barrier to entry and putting connection first.
Favorite route on the tour
While Top of Reseda is a frequent local favorite, Jonathan’s top pick is Brown Mountain. A shaded meetup area, lush trails, mountain air, and even a man-made waterfall make it a standout experience that reminds runners why they fell in love with trail running in the first place.
Trail running thrives on shared routes, shared responsibility, and shared moments. The Tour of LA proves that with thoughtful planning and the right tools, community runs can be both welcoming and adventurous.
Fire up Footpath and explore the routes!