The first Runoff Science group run series, which will include citizen science observations along the adventure. These runs are for any outdoor-loving trail runners who might want to learn more about their natural environment and ways they can protect it.
As a Sacramento-based organization, Runoff Science is excited to kick off with a focused investigation of the American River watershed in the FlowPath Series. These group long-run adventures are each focused on a portion of the watershed, gradually moving toward the headwaters. However, through the entire series, runners will gain a holistic perspective of the watershed and how the interconnected rivers, tributaries, and lakes all serve a critical role in managing the quantity and quality of water transported throughout the region.
Ridge to River
When: June 20, 2026 at 8:30 am
Where: Michigan Bluff, CA
This run will take you deep into the canyons of Tahoe National Forest. We’ll run an out-and-back along the Western States 100 course between Michigan Bluff and Swinging Bridge, stopping to make observations at Eldorado Creek and the North Fork of the Middle Fork of the American River. Total distance is estimated to be between 18 and 20 miles.
Talus & Tributaries
When: July 18, 2026 at 8:30 am
Where: Kyburz, CA
This run will begin at Wrights Lake Campground near the South Fork of Silver Creek (a major tributary that supplies the South Fork of the American River). We’ll follow Wrights Lake to Twin Lakes Trail, before climbing up to make observations at several alpine lakes. We’ll follow Twin Lakes Trail back to Wrights Lake Campground. Total distance is estimated to be between 11 and 12 miles.
Summit the Source
When: August 15, 2026 at 8:30 am
Where: Olympic Valley, CA
This run will start along the legendary Western States 100 course, where we’ll run from Palisades up to the Escarpment and locate the headwaters of the North Fork and Middle Fork of the American River. We’ll then follow Granite Chief Trail back to the start, stopping to make observations at creeks and lakes along the way. Total distance is estimated to be between 13 and 14 miles.
More information about the American River Watershed, as well as the detailed map below, can be found here.
Runoff Science 