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The Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon
- Sapphire Running Team
- Jul 23, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Jan 6
Running through Wine Country: A Unique Experience
How does a run through some of the finest wine country in the US, followed by a post-race wine festival sound? The Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon starts at Cuvaison Carneros Winery. Along the way, you'll see Napa-Sonoma Marshes Wildlife Preserve, San Pablo Bay, and Mt. Tamalpais. The views are stunning from start to finish. Choose from a 5km or the half marathon, or do both!
The Destination: Explore Napa and Sonoma
Welcome to Wine Country! Sonoma and Napa are towns, counties, and valleys located less than 60 miles north of San Francisco. They are internationally renowned destinations, welcoming millions of wine-loving visitors every year.
Napa Valley is bigger in population, with 80,000 residents compared to Sonoma's 10,000. It is one of the most famous wine destinations in the world. Napa has 390 wineries producing more than 1,000 brands of wine. It is best known for its Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The four main tourist towns—Napa, Yountville, St. Helena, and Calistoga—boast luxurious accommodations and restaurants, with price points to match. The vineyards are easily accessible via numerous wine routes along Highway 29 and the Silverado Trail. However, tasting room prices are often higher than in neighbouring Sonoma. The best way to experience the wineries here and in Sonoma is to either grab a tour or hire your own driver, but best wait until after the race!
In contrast, Sonoma is almost double the size of Napa, with 70,000 wine-producing acres and over 400 wineries. It stretches roughly 17 miles from north to south, bordered by the Sonoma Mountains to the west and the Mayacamas Mountains to the east. Sonoma County is known for its Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, and sparkling wines. There are over 30 cities and towns in Sonoma County, with the most well-known being Sonoma, where you'll finish the 13.1 miles, and Healdsburg. Sonoma is more laid back and relaxed than Napa, making it a more affordable option. This applies to tasting rooms, bottle prices, accommodations, and restaurants.
If you've had enough wine and you're looking for something different, consider a hot air balloon ride, horse riding, or relaxing in a spa in Calistoga. Calistoga is home to one of the largest mineral pools in California. The 1,400-acre Jack London State Historic Park tells the story of famed writer and adventurer Jack London, who made this area his home. You can explore the cottage, Beauty Ranch, Wolf House ruins, and the House of Happy Walls Museum or walk some of the 26 miles of trails.
History of the Event
Founded in 2004, the Napa-to-Sonoma event was the first in a series called the Wine Country Half Marathon Series, operated by Destination Races. The inaugural Napa-to-Sonoma event had 1,000 runners. It quickly grew to its current capacity and became a sell-out event. The event was sold to Motiv and is now operated by them.
Race Organiser: Motive Running
Motive Running is part of the Motive Group, which owns and operates a number of large running events across the US. Their expertise ensures a well-organized and enjoyable experience for all participants.
When Does It Happen?
The race is held annually in July. This timing allows participants to enjoy the warm summer weather while running through the beautiful wine country.
Distances Available
Participants can choose between a Half Marathon and a 5k. The 'Pairing' challenge gives runners the opportunity to run both distances, making it a unique experience for those who want to push their limits.
Is There an Expo?
Yes! The expo for both events takes place on Saturday. It starts at 6:30 AM for 5k runners and at 8:30 AM for half marathon runners. The expo is held at Sonoma Plaza, in front of Sonoma City Hall. Runners participating in both events (The Pairing) can pick up their half marathon bib after completing the Rosé 5K.
Half marathon participants need to visit Bib Pick-Up to collect their race bib, event shirt, race tote bag, gear check bag, and more.
How Many Runners Participate?
The event typically attracts around 3,000 runners. This creates a vibrant atmosphere while still allowing for a personal experience on the course.
The Course: A Scenic Journey
The start line of the half marathon is at Cuvaison Estate Wines in Napa at 7:00 AM. Runners can either take a shuttle to the start line or get dropped off, but there is no parking available at the start line.
Founded in 1969 and located in the Los Carneros region, Cuvaison is known for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Its 400 acres create the perfect backdrop for the start of the event. Runners face an immediate climb up Butt Burner Hill, which can be a shock if you're not prepared. It's the toughest part of the course, but the view from the top, across the Napa Valley, is truly breathtaking.
For the next two miles, the course continues gently downhill along Duhig Road, before turning east to Ramal Road until mile 5 and then north. There are no significant hills, just some light undulations. Runners pass Carneros Hills Winery and then the Donham Estate. Donham is unique, featuring the Donum Collection, one of the world's largest accessible private sculpture collections. Founded in 2011, it boasts more than 50 monumental works on the 200-acre estate, bringing together a global community of artists from 18 nations across six continents.
The course continues past Ricci Vineyards around halfway and on to Burndale Road, continuing north to Denmark St and into Sonoma. The last 3 miles lead northwest across the town to the stunning Sonoma Plaza. The eight-acre Plaza was laid out in 1835 and is the largest of its kind in California. In 1961, it was dedicated as a National Historic Landmark. The town's City Hall is located in the center of The Plaza. Dedicated in 1908, the building was originally designed with four identical facades so that merchants from any side of the square could say the City Hall faced their businesses.
There is also the Grinstead Amphitheatre, a rose garden, a duck pond, and two playgrounds, making it a popular location for both locals and visitors.
The Rosé 5K course starts and finishes in Sonoma Plaza. Runners pass the Sonoma State Historic Park, which includes Mission San Francisco Solano and Sonoma Barracks, as well as Sonoma’s idyllic neighborhoods. They enjoy scenic landscape views of local vineyards before heading back to Sonoma Plaza to the same finish as the half marathon.
The finish area is buzzing with action. There are tastings from more than 20 local wineries and plenty of food, along with great music. Each runner receives a souvenir glass and can sample from any of the winery partners present. The festivities wrap up at noon.
What's Unique About This Event?
A post-race wine festival is a fantastic way to celebrate your achievement. It adds a unique twist to the running experience, allowing participants to unwind and enjoy the local offerings.
Do Charities Benefit?
Yes, there are several charity partners each year, and runners are encouraged to raise funds for them. This adds a philanthropic element to the event, making it even more meaningful.
Our Verdict: An Unforgettable Experience
It may seem strange to have virtually no spectators on the course, but in a way, it's not a bad thing. It gives you the opportunity to absorb the incredible scenery—the rolling hills, the hot air balloons, and the wineries. This is a very special part of the world, and enjoying it in silence seems like the best way to experience it. The shuttle buses are an unfortunate necessity to get to the start, but you forget about that once you start running. The finish line festival is a great way to end the event; it’s just a shame it doesn't go on a bit longer!
How to Register
You can register online via the race website. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis and is likely to sell out quickly.
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