Photo courtesy of Fair Oaks Recreation and Park District

FAIR OAKS, CA (MPG) – Lace up your running shoes and get ready to hit the dirt! The Fair Oaks Recreation and Park District (FORPD) has officially announced the return of the Lake Natoma Trail Run, scheduled for Saturday, June 6.

Formerly known as the Mississippi Bar Trail Run, this annual event invites runners of all skill levels to experience the rugged beauty of the Lake Natoma north shore. Whether you are a seasoned trail veteran or a newcomer looking for a scenic challenge, the race offers a unique opportunity to explore the oak-studded bluffs and historic gold-mining landscapes of Fair Oaks.  

The Course: A Step Back in Time  

The race features both 5K and 10K options. Participants will navigate a mix of single and double track trails that wind through wetlands and rolling hills surrounding Lake Natoma.  

The 5K takes runners up into the oak-lined bluffs for a bird’s-eye view of Lake Natoma and the unique rock dredge trails left behind by 19th-century gold prospectors. The 10K expands on the 5K route, leading runners deeper into the rocky terrain and along the serene shoreline of the lake.  

“This race highlights the unique natural features that make our area one of a kind,” says Race Director Davey King. “From the evidence of our gold mining past to the beautiful Lake Natoma and American River trails, it’s a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts.”  

Running for Rachel: A Legacy of Leadership  

While the views are a major draw, the heart of the Lake Natoma Trail Run lies in its beneficiary it supports. Funds raised from the run benefit the Rachel Anne Gray Memorial Scholarship.  

The scholarship was established to honor the life of Rachel Anne Gray, a dedicated Fair Oaks resident and former member of the Fair Oaks Youth Advisory Board (FOYAB). A graduate of Bella Vista High School and CSU Sacramento, Rachel was known for her vibrant spirit and her commitment to community service before her passing in 2012 at the age of 21. Because Rachel was an avid runner who frequented local races, Recreation Manager Nick Davison established this event in 2020. His goal was to create a legacy and a sustainable source of funding for the scholarship by connecting her passion for running with the community she loved.  

By participating in the run, athletes help fund annual awards for local high school seniors who mirror Rachel’s dedication to leadership and community service. These scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $2,500, empower the next generation of Fair Oaks leaders to seek positive solutions to the challenges facing today’s youth. To date the scholarship has funded over $45,000 in youth scholarships.  

Registration Details 

Early registration is encouraged, with tiered pricing available. Through April 30, it will cost $44 to register for the 5K and $49 to register for the 10K.

From May 1 through June 6, it will cost $49 to register for the 5K and $54 to register for the 10K.  

Active and retired military members receive a $5 discount. 

Join the Community  

Whether you run, walk or volunteer, your involvement ensures that Rachel’s legacy continues to make a difference in the lives of local students.  

To register or donate to the scholarship fund scan the QR code or go to www.forpd.org/trailrun.