SCTC 5K Turkey Trot

SCTC 5K Turkey Trot is the Santa Clarita Track Club's Thanksgiving run in Santa Clarita, California, on November 26, 2026. The 1K Turkey Trot (about 0.6 miles), a separate race for kids 10 and under, starts at 8:15 a.m., and the 5K Turkey Trot (3.1 miles) follows at 8:45 a.m. Community members of all ages are invited to run, walk or jog, and the event supports the club's cross-country and track-and-field programs. The 5K follows a cross-country course through Santa Clarita Central Park.

Unlike most turkey trots, this one is run on a cross-country layout rather than city streets, so expect grass, dirt and some uneven footing instead of pavement. Trail or cross-country shoes with a bit of grip will serve you better than racing flats, and pacing by effort rather than by the watch makes sense. Beginners can still handle the distance after four to six weeks of easy running, while experienced runners will find it a fun change of surface at the end of the fall season. Parents can watch the kids' 1K and still have half an hour to warm up before the 5K start.