There are 10Ks.

And then there are 10Ks that send you climbing more than 1,100 feet toward one of the best views in North County.

The Double Peak Challenge returns to San Marcos on Saturday, September 26, bringing runners, walkers and some very energetic kids to San Elijo Hills Neighborhood Park for its 11th annual outing.

And if you've been looking for an excuse to find out exactly how much your legs like you, this might be it.

The 10K Earns the Word “Challenge”

The headline event is the competitive 10K, and organizers aren't pretending it's an easy morning jog.

Runners start at San Elijo Hills Neighborhood Park and tackle a multi-surface, out-and-back course through San Elijo Hills and Double Peak. Along the way, they'll gain approximately 1,176 feet in elevation before reaching Double Peak's 1,558-foot summit.

The payoff?

Panoramic North County views from the top.

The official race site describes it as possibly one of the most challenging 10K courses in San Diego County. The route includes asphalt, decomposed granite and some seriously steep terrain.

The 10K begins at 7:30 a.m., following a 7:15 warm-up.

Not Looking to Conquer a Mountain Before Breakfast?

There's a 5K Fun Run, too.

It starts at 8 a.m. and isn't timed, making it the more approachable option — although organizers warn that this course has plenty of hills of its own.

Both 10K and 5K participants receive a race bib, wooden medal and shirt.

Then, at 9:30 a.m., the Kids Trail Trot gives children under 10 their turn near the event's expo area. The Kids Trot is noncompetitive, and registration is free.

And This Race Gives Back

There's another reason to lace up.

The Double Peak Challenge is a fundraiser benefiting Friends of San Marcos Parks & Recreation and the Boys & Girls Club of San Marcos, supporting local recreation and opportunities for young people in the community.

Race-day check-in opens at 6:15 a.m. at San Elijo Hills Neighborhood Park, 1105 Elfin Forest Road in San Marcos. The awards presentation is scheduled for 10 a.m.

Want to skip at least one race-morning line? Advance packet pickup is Wednesday, September 23, from 4 to 7 p.m. at North City, 250 N. City Drive.

Questions You May Have About The Double Peak Challenge

How Much Does the Double Peak Challenge Cost?

As of August 19, registration is listed at $60 for the 10K and $30 for the 5K before processing fees. The registration page says those prices increase after August 25. The Kids Trail Trot is free.

When Is the 2026 Double Peak Challenge?

Saturday, September 26, 2026.

Where Does the Race Start?

San Elijo Hills Neighborhood Park, 1105 Elfin Forest Road, San Marcos.

Where Can I Register?

Registration and additional race information are available through the official Double Peak Challenge website.

So, San Marcos: you've got a little more than a month to train.

Or to perfect the time-honored strategy of signing up first and figuring out the hills later.