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Marathon Details - Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon

North America Marathons > USA > CA > Susanville > Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon

Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon

Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon & 50K, Half Marathon, 10K

Susanville, CA USA

October 12, 2024

https://www.bizzrunningcompany.com/bizzjohnsonmarathon/

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Race Details

The course crosses the river 12 times on bridges and trestles and passes through two tunnels (one 800 feet, the other 450 feet).

Contact Information

Name:	Linda Powell
Address:	Susanville Ranch Park Susanville, CA 96130
Phone Number:	530-310-5013
Email:	Email the organizers

Runner Reviews (103)

Course 4.7

Organization 4.1

Spectators 3.0

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Number of comments: 103 [displaying comments 1 to 11]

More Comments: [ < 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 .. 11 > ]

M. K. from Northwest US (10/9/2023) "Great first marathon" (about: 2023) First Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 The only things I new about this marathon was that it was above 5000 feet, it was on trails, and it was downhill. I was scared about the altitude, but happy I wouldn't be pounding pavement, and that I wouldn't have to do a lot of vertical. The race ended up being a real pleasure, with just enough people from two races to let me know I hadn't wandered off course. The altitude ended up being no big deal- I ran way faster than I expected. The aid stations were perfect, spaced every 2-3miles. My only complaint is the course marking could have used a few pylons(or a human) at the 1st turnaround to make it more obvious- Many of us probably ran an extra 1/8 -1/2 mile because we were focused on running instead of the smudged chalk. Other than that every marking worked OK. The organizers had a great attitude, and were universally helpful. Bottom line, this is a 'must do' race IMHO.
Valley Runner from California (10/24/2015) "Easy-going, well-organized, and scenic" (about: 2015) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 Really enjoyed this run. We were fortunate to have excellent weather. Clear, light breeze, cool at the start, getting a little warm at the end but not intolerable. I ran the 50K and was pleased with my time. The course is mostly downhill but the grade is slight and it does not thrash your quads. Friendly volunteers and excellent aid stations. Buses to the start and from the finish back to the starting point were on time and comfortable. 'Trail' in this case mostly means not paved, and the surface was good. I recommend these races if you don't want a crowd scene but want to challenge yourself.
D. B. from Chester, CA (10/30/2014) "Beautiful" (about: 2014) 4-5 previous marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 1 I live nearby and have run on the trail many times, but figured it was time I ran the race. I did the regular half. Even knowing the course, my breath was taken away (not by the altitude!) by the gorgeous scenery and fall colors. We have mostly orange and yellows here. I loved the quiet and solitude of the run. The aid stations looked stocked! This course is not going to be faster than a road course, but if you worked very hard you may be able to PR here. The finish was very low key. There wasn't a table set up with drinks and snacks. They were getting ready for a yummy looking BBQ, which is included, but I needed something right away as I didn't take anything during the run. I disagree that the tunnels need more light. I love running through the dark tunnels! The lanterns cast shadows across little pebbles and slight dips making them appear larger than they were. They keep the tunnels well maintained, so running through them blind isn't a concern. The weather can be either very cold the entire day or start out cold and get fairly hot. There's often a wind blowing in the last section from Devil's Corral to the finish. I'd definitely do this event again, sticking with the out & back half as that is the prettiest section.
J. W. from Des Moines, IA (formerly K.C., KS) Go Royals! (10/15/2014) "Beautiful Trail Marathon mostly for BQers" (about: 2014) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 2 I read an article about Bizz Johnson many years ago and have thought about doing it for years. I finally decided to do it this year as my California race and my 17th state. I come from the Midwest and, apparently, am spoiled by the magnificent race directors for the trail runs in this part of the country. Every runner is important to them. Not just those attempting a fast time. I suffer from a rare ailment and was struggling a lot in the second half of this marathon. The people at the aid stations were very good about asking me what I needed, offering me a chair, etc. When I finished, however, it was a different story. I immediately sat down on the ground and no one ever checked on me or asked if I needed anything. I assume you have to do an unconcious face plant to get attention at the finish. I finally got to my feet again to go in search of liquid. I found what I needed and sat down under a tree to wait for the shuttle back to the parking lot. (BTW - I had to ask about the shuttle and be given a ticket. Information was not provided.) When the van pulled into the parking lot I really needed a hand to stand up again. A man, who appeared to be the race director, (he emerged from the Coastal Trail Runs van and referred to himself as 'The Dude') was walking by at that moment and I hollered 'Hey, The Dude, can you help me up?' After yelling that a couple of times he glared at me and said 'I'll be there in a minute!' Fortunately another runner came to my assistance and I got on the shuttle. After that experience I reflected back to the beginning of the run when we were lining up. The man on the bull horn(The Dude?) kept constantly talking to all those attempting to BQ with little regard for any other runners at this event. That said, I give high marks to the volunteers at all the aid stations. The course is in a beautiful setting and you never have to run on pavement. As a trail run it is not technical at all, and it's mostly downhill. If you are a slower runner or one who is having a bad day shy away from this one unless you know you are really on your own as far as the race director is concerned. If you are attempting a BQ off pavement this is the run for you!
K. A. from OR (5/29/2014) "Will run it again" (about: 2013) 6-10 previous marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 I ran this as my first trail marathon. It was my 6th marathon overall. I loved the scenery and the relaxing feel with bracing temps to start that never rose too high. (not as high as I expected anyway) The aid stations, although spread out, were staffed by incredibly supportive people. I wished for more porta-potty stations but was ok. Just know the tunnels could use more lanterns as you are running in short stretches of PITCH black. Messes with your mind but is a change of pace... The town was perfect and setup of packet pickup also good. It was a good place to celebrate turning 50 even if it happened the day after the run!
D. R. from Oroville, CA (10/16/2012) "Good first trail marathon, but not at all fast." (about: 2012) 2 previous marathons COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 1 If you have never run a trail marathon, this one would be a good introduction, if you come prepared. There is no expo, and only a simple bib pickup. Susanville isn't a thriving metropolis, so bring what you need. The bus ride was comfortable, and we were blessed with fairly decent temperatures at the start. Be prepared for a very casual start, with a bullhorn call to the line. The water tables are manned by fantastic volunteers, but most are 3 miles apart, so bring your own water and fuel for in between. Most likely, those volunteers will be the only people that you will see on the trail to cheer you on! It got warm near the finish, and we were filthy from the trail. All in all, I'm glad that we did it, just to have a trail marathon under my belt, but I don't think I'll be doing that again. If you run it, do it for the memory because the medal is pretty cheap.
R. H. from Susanville, Ca (10/13/2012) "Great course for a first marathon" (about: 2012) 1 previous marathon \| 1 Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 I thought it was great for my first time running a marathon. I'd say it's a nice easy course (I can't compare it as this was my first marathon) I was able to finish without any real serious pain and I didn't even train for it. Everyone was friendly, the aid stations were spaced just the right distance and stocked with plenty for everyone, the food at the end was wonderful. I will make this a yearly event.
M. M. from Klamath Falls, Oregon (10/12/2012) "Fun Laid Back Trail Marathon" (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 6+ Bizz Johnson Trail Marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This is my sixth year running the Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon and this year I did the 50K. The 50K was just added this year, and starts an hour before the regular marathon with an out and back along a fire road that parallels the Bizz Johnson Trail. The entire rail trail is a little less than 25 miles so both the marathon and 50K both start with an appropriately measured out and back. This worked perfectly for me because I ended up running into the pack of marathoners after an hour run and since all the mile markers were based on the marathon distance psychologically it just seemed like I was running a regular marathon after a little early morning jog. After the first section on the fire road the course follows a well broken in (that is to say NOT technical) rail trail that is a delight to run. There are about five uphill miles at the start and then 21 miles of gradual, steady downhill with zero pavement - perfect. The race was well organized, but there was no expo or swag this year so make sure you have everything you need prior to arriving in Susanville. The race is a mostly downhill point to point with bus transport to the start. I live and train at the same altitude as the race so the elevation is a non-issue for me. Some, but not all, people who come from sea level seem to feel the altitude difference. As usual I took photos before and during the race which are on flickr and are also linked from the Bizz Johnson website.
M. T. from Susanville, Ca (10/11/2012) "Beautiful, well organized, friendly, very fun!" (about: 2012) 1 previous marathon \| 1 Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 The course is beautiful, the weather was perfect. I took it slow & before I knew it I was at the finish line shocked & surprised at how easy and painless it was. I can't compare this marathon to any other since it was my 1st. It was well organized, aid stations had plenty of water, electrolytes, Cliff shots & salt PLUS an amazing variety of extras including oranges, bananas, potato+corn chips, Mike&Ikes and M&Ms! *BigThankU to the awesome volunteers at the aid stations! No huge crowds of spectators so if you absolutely can't live without a huge crowd this event isn't for you. If you don't need large crowds then you'll be quite happy with this little group of very enthusiastic spectators. I recommend this event to those who prefer small gatherings of relaxed friendly people and mellow low-stress environment. I definitely will run it again next year.
D. P. from Santa Rosa, CA (10/9/2012) "Mostly Scenic Course, Not as Fast as Advertized" (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon COURSE: 3 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 4 Well organized, fun little marathon. First half is kind of monotonous; second half is scenic but can be pretty warm. If you need lots of spectators and distractions this is not the race for you. The long descent is so gradual as to be unnoticable. The aid stations were well staffed and the folks you did run into were very enthusiastic. Great event, but realize it is still a 'trail' marathon in spite of the flat, even course. Footing is soft and easy on the joints but not fast. They should start at 8am or even 7am. 9am start is too late.

More Comments: [ < 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 .. 11 > ]



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M. K. from Northwest US (10/9/2023) "Great first marathon" (about: 2023) First Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 2 The only things I new about this marathon was that it was above 5000 feet, it was on trails, and it was downhill. I was scared about the altitude, but happy I wouldn't be pounding pavement, and that I wouldn't have to do a lot of vertical. The race ended up being a real pleasure, with just enough people from two races to let me know I hadn't wandered off course. The altitude ended up being no big deal- I ran way faster than I expected. The aid stations were perfect, spaced every 2-3miles. My only complaint is the course marking could have used a few pylons(or a human) at the 1st turnaround to make it more obvious- Many of us probably ran an extra 1/8 -1/2 mile because we were focused on running instead of the smudged chalk. Other than that every marking worked OK. The organizers had a great attitude, and were universally helpful. Bottom line, this is a 'must do' race IMHO.
Valley Runner from California (10/24/2015) "Easy-going, well-organized, and scenic" (about: 2015) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 Really enjoyed this run. We were fortunate to have excellent weather. Clear, light breeze, cool at the start, getting a little warm at the end but not intolerable. I ran the 50K and was pleased with my time. The course is mostly downhill but the grade is slight and it does not thrash your quads. Friendly volunteers and excellent aid stations. Buses to the start and from the finish back to the starting point were on time and comfortable. 'Trail' in this case mostly means not paved, and the surface was good. I recommend these races if you don't want a crowd scene but want to challenge yourself.
D. B. from Chester, CA (10/30/2014) "Beautiful" (about: 2014) 4-5 previous marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 1 I live nearby and have run on the trail many times, but figured it was time I ran the race. I did the regular half. Even knowing the course, my breath was taken away (not by the altitude!) by the gorgeous scenery and fall colors. We have mostly orange and yellows here. I loved the quiet and solitude of the run. The aid stations looked stocked! This course is not going to be faster than a road course, but if you worked very hard you may be able to PR here. The finish was very low key. There wasn't a table set up with drinks and snacks. They were getting ready for a yummy looking BBQ, which is included, but I needed something right away as I didn't take anything during the run. I disagree that the tunnels need more light. I love running through the dark tunnels! The lanterns cast shadows across little pebbles and slight dips making them appear larger than they were. They keep the tunnels well maintained, so running through them blind isn't a concern. The weather can be either very cold the entire day or start out cold and get fairly hot. There's often a wind blowing in the last section from Devil's Corral to the finish. I'd definitely do this event again, sticking with the out & back half as that is the prettiest section.
J. W. from Des Moines, IA (formerly K.C., KS) Go Royals! (10/15/2014) "Beautiful Trail Marathon mostly for BQers" (about: 2014) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 2 I read an article about Bizz Johnson many years ago and have thought about doing it for years. I finally decided to do it this year as my California race and my 17th state. I come from the Midwest and, apparently, am spoiled by the magnificent race directors for the trail runs in this part of the country. Every runner is important to them. Not just those attempting a fast time. I suffer from a rare ailment and was struggling a lot in the second half of this marathon. The people at the aid stations were very good about asking me what I needed, offering me a chair, etc. When I finished, however, it was a different story. I immediately sat down on the ground and no one ever checked on me or asked if I needed anything. I assume you have to do an unconcious face plant to get attention at the finish. I finally got to my feet again to go in search of liquid. I found what I needed and sat down under a tree to wait for the shuttle back to the parking lot. (BTW - I had to ask about the shuttle and be given a ticket. Information was not provided.) When the van pulled into the parking lot I really needed a hand to stand up again. A man, who appeared to be the race director, (he emerged from the Coastal Trail Runs van and referred to himself as 'The Dude') was walking by at that moment and I hollered 'Hey, The Dude, can you help me up?' After yelling that a couple of times he glared at me and said 'I'll be there in a minute!' Fortunately another runner came to my assistance and I got on the shuttle. After that experience I reflected back to the beginning of the run when we were lining up. The man on the bull horn(The Dude?) kept constantly talking to all those attempting to BQ with little regard for any other runners at this event. That said, I give high marks to the volunteers at all the aid stations. The course is in a beautiful setting and you never have to run on pavement. As a trail run it is not technical at all, and it's mostly downhill. If you are a slower runner or one who is having a bad day shy away from this one unless you know you are really on your own as far as the race director is concerned. If you are attempting a BQ off pavement this is the run for you!
K. A. from OR (5/29/2014) "Will run it again" (about: 2013) 6-10 previous marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 3 I ran this as my first trail marathon. It was my 6th marathon overall. I loved the scenery and the relaxing feel with bracing temps to start that never rose too high. (not as high as I expected anyway) The aid stations, although spread out, were staffed by incredibly supportive people. I wished for more porta-potty stations but was ok. Just know the tunnels could use more lanterns as you are running in short stretches of PITCH black. Messes with your mind but is a change of pace... The town was perfect and setup of packet pickup also good. It was a good place to celebrate turning 50 even if it happened the day after the run!
D. R. from Oroville, CA (10/16/2012) "Good first trail marathon, but not at all fast." (about: 2012) 2 previous marathons COURSE: 4 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 1 If you have never run a trail marathon, this one would be a good introduction, if you come prepared. There is no expo, and only a simple bib pickup. Susanville isn't a thriving metropolis, so bring what you need. The bus ride was comfortable, and we were blessed with fairly decent temperatures at the start. Be prepared for a very casual start, with a bullhorn call to the line. The water tables are manned by fantastic volunteers, but most are 3 miles apart, so bring your own water and fuel for in between. Most likely, those volunteers will be the only people that you will see on the trail to cheer you on! It got warm near the finish, and we were filthy from the trail. All in all, I'm glad that we did it, just to have a trail marathon under my belt, but I don't think I'll be doing that again. If you run it, do it for the memory because the medal is pretty cheap.
R. H. from Susanville, Ca (10/13/2012) "Great course for a first marathon" (about: 2012) 1 previous marathon \| 1 Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 I thought it was great for my first time running a marathon. I'd say it's a nice easy course (I can't compare it as this was my first marathon) I was able to finish without any real serious pain and I didn't even train for it. Everyone was friendly, the aid stations were spaced just the right distance and stocked with plenty for everyone, the food at the end was wonderful. I will make this a yearly event.
M. M. from Klamath Falls, Oregon (10/12/2012) "Fun Laid Back Trail Marathon" (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 6+ Bizz Johnson Trail Marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 3 This is my sixth year running the Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon and this year I did the 50K. The 50K was just added this year, and starts an hour before the regular marathon with an out and back along a fire road that parallels the Bizz Johnson Trail. The entire rail trail is a little less than 25 miles so both the marathon and 50K both start with an appropriately measured out and back. This worked perfectly for me because I ended up running into the pack of marathoners after an hour run and since all the mile markers were based on the marathon distance psychologically it just seemed like I was running a regular marathon after a little early morning jog. After the first section on the fire road the course follows a well broken in (that is to say NOT technical) rail trail that is a delight to run. There are about five uphill miles at the start and then 21 miles of gradual, steady downhill with zero pavement - perfect. The race was well organized, but there was no expo or swag this year so make sure you have everything you need prior to arriving in Susanville. The race is a mostly downhill point to point with bus transport to the start. I live and train at the same altitude as the race so the elevation is a non-issue for me. Some, but not all, people who come from sea level seem to feel the altitude difference. As usual I took photos before and during the race which are on flickr and are also linked from the Bizz Johnson website.
M. T. from Susanville, Ca (10/11/2012) "Beautiful, well organized, friendly, very fun!" (about: 2012) 1 previous marathon \| 1 Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 The course is beautiful, the weather was perfect. I took it slow & before I knew it I was at the finish line shocked & surprised at how easy and painless it was. I can't compare this marathon to any other since it was my 1st. It was well organized, aid stations had plenty of water, electrolytes, Cliff shots & salt PLUS an amazing variety of extras including oranges, bananas, potato+corn chips, Mike&Ikes and M&Ms! *BigThankU to the awesome volunteers at the aid stations! No huge crowds of spectators so if you absolutely can't live without a huge crowd this event isn't for you. If you don't need large crowds then you'll be quite happy with this little group of very enthusiastic spectators. I recommend this event to those who prefer small gatherings of relaxed friendly people and mellow low-stress environment. I definitely will run it again next year.
D. P. from Santa Rosa, CA (10/9/2012) "Mostly Scenic Course, Not as Fast as Advertized" (about: 2012) 11-50 previous marathons \| 1 Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon COURSE: 3 ORGANIZATION: 4 FANS: 4 Well organized, fun little marathon. First half is kind of monotonous; second half is scenic but can be pretty warm. If you need lots of spectators and distractions this is not the race for you. The long descent is so gradual as to be unnoticable. The aid stations were well staffed and the folks you did run into were very enthusiastic. Great event, but realize it is still a 'trail' marathon in spite of the flat, even course. Footing is soft and easy on the joints but not fast. They should start at 8am or even 7am. 9am start is too late.

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Marathon Details - Bizz Johnson Trail Marathon