2012 Mercury Mine Trail Run
Mercury Mine Trail Run – May 20, 2012
Rescheduled Date: Sunday, May 20th, 2012
Original Event Date: April 14th, 2012 — Postponed due to rain / trail closures
Ever wonder how all the Sierra gold miners were able to extract all the gold from the hills? Their secret weapon was mercury that was mined out of Almaden Quicksilver park. The park is loaded with steep hillsides, cool forests, open meadows, and some deep valleys. Most importantly, there are over 34 miles worth or great trails!
Register today and join us for either the 7k, 12k, or 18k run (Please note, the 18K route may be slightly altered to 20K depending on trail conditions). There’s a decent amount of early elevation gain on this course, but you’re then rewarded with some magnificent views and lots of rollers (and plenty of downhill) for the remainder of the run. If you don’t want to run, just walk or hike the course.
There will be three different distances to choose from including a 7k, 12k, and 18k loop. All routes will be clearly marked and there will be water stations on the course. See the course maps.
Date & Location
Sunday, May 20th, 2012
Check-in: 7:30am-8:30am Start: 9am
Almaden Quicksilver County Park
Mockingbird Hill Entrance / Parking Area
Mockingbird Hill Lane
San Jose (New Almaden), CA 95120 <map>
Fast Facts
- 7k, 12k, & 18k distances (See course maps)
- Great for beginners and experienced trail runners
- Fire roads and single track, moderate terrain
- Some steep uphills early in the race
- Awards for all finishers
- Cost:
Starting at $30 7k, $35 12k, $40 18k
Fees go up $15 per distance starting 3/12/2012. - Register Today! Advanced Registration required. Field limited.
Elevation Profiles
Mercury Mine 7k Trail Run – Elevation gain: 1,038 ft.
Mercury Mine 12k Trail Run – Elevation gain: 2,179 ft.
Mercury Mine 18k Trail Run – Elevation gain: 2,444 ft.
What to Bring
- Your running shoes (plus a shirt and shorts are also helpful)
- A water bottle
- A smile
What to Expect
Check-in (between 7:30am and 8:30am)
Once you arrive at the event for check-in, you will just need to pick up your race bibs if you’re pre-registered. Don’t wait until the last minute, arrive a little early, get your number and stretch out, relax and take in the view. If the race has not sold out in advance, race day registrants must arrive early and will incur an additional $15 fee (cash or checks only). Race day registration closes at 8:30am.
Pre-Race Briefing (Approximately 8:45am)
We will give you a short race course overview, tell a few jokes, make any important announcements and answer an questions you may have.
Race Start (9:00am)
You’ll line up at the starting line and then… you’re off! See the course maps for a preview.
You’ll see some course photographers and water stations along the course and we’ll eventually see you at the finish!
We’ll have some snacks/drinks for you at the finish and you’re welcome to cheer on the other finishers as they cross the finish line!
Results
This is not intended to be a competitive run and we do not have Swiss timing sensors. Go out, do your best, and have fun. Of course, we’ll still be timing the event and marking your number down as your cross the finish line. That way, we can award prizes to top finishers in a variety of different age/gender categories. Plus, all finishers will receive medals.
Official results will be posted on the website within 24 hours after the event.
Pictures
- Links to pictures will be provided here after the race
- If you, or someone you know, wants to share photos from the event… please contact us
Rules
- Have FUN
- Be courteous to other runners and trail users
- NO littering
Directions to Start/Finish Location
Check-in and race start is at the Mockingbird Hill entrance of Almaden Quicksilver Park. The entrance is accessed off Mockingbird Hill Lane and accessible to all users, including bicyclists. From Highway 85, take the Almaden Expressway exit south 4.5 miles to Almaden Road. Proceed .5 miles on Almaden Road to Mockingbird Hill Lane, turn right and continue .4 miles to the parking area..
PARKING: Be considerate and park appropriately so that all cars can fit in the lot area. If the lot is full, you may need to park in one of the adjoining neighborhoods. Do not park alongside Mockingbird Hill Lane where NO PARKING signs are posted.
