Photo credit: Diana Sanchez Macias, click here for more 2026 Race for Open Space photos.
That’s a Wrap!
Recap: Race for Open Space 2026
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this year’s Race for Open Space!
The day was full of great views and great people — with 300+ participants across our multi-course trail runs and an amazing crowd to cheer them on. From volunteers and runners, to cheerleaders and sponsors, we are thankful for all of you who came out to celebrate each other and the lands we all love.
Participants represented 14 states and ranged in age from less than 1 year to 82 years young! Congratulations to this year’s top finishers:
- Dylan Flynn – 35k male (3:29:31)*
- Taylor Miller – 35k female (4:08:46)*
- Ethan Swergold – 25k male (2:09:18)
- Schuyler Nardelli – 25k female (2:47:34)
- Kelsey Nakata – 12k male (1:03:34)
- Brita Bruemmer – 12k female (1:11:06)
- Milo Rayne – 12k non-binary (1:12:31)
- Miles Blum – 5k male (18:31)*
- Jane Kineva – 5k female (27:00)
*New course record!
Race for Open Space is truly powered by teamwork, and we are so grateful to our friends at Inside Trail Racing for helping us deliver such an incredible event. A special thank you to this year’s Presenting Partner Sponsors, Malachi Boyce Construction and Star One Credit Union. We are so thankful to all of our sponsors who made this year’s Race for Open Space a success.
2026 Gratitude Report: Returning Every Year
Because of you, 2025 was a year of meaningful progress for Big Sur Land Trust. Together, we protected and restored the landscapes that define this region while expanding access to nature for thousands of people across our community.
Your support continues to make so much possible. Today, we are co-stewarding more than 5,000 acres alongside local tribes and have supported the return of 84 acres to Indigenous communities; we maintain 43 miles of publicly accessible trails that connect people of all ages to the outdoors; and over the years, nearly 2,000 young people have participated in our programs focused on nature, leadership, and discovery. At the same time, we are expanding community spaces like Ensen Community Park, bringing green space and opportunity to thousands of families. Read more >>
PSA: Infrastructure Repairs at Mitteldorf Preserve
Starting in July, Mitteldorf Preserve will be temporarily closed to the public while Big Sur Land Trust’s stewardship team completes critical infrastructure repairs. These important improvements are being made to ensure the preserve remains safe, accessible, and open for future generations to enjoy.
Mitteldorf Preserve is a special place for many in our community, and we understand that this closure may affect summer hiking plans. This is a great opportunity to explore our other publicly accessible preserves; Glen Deven Ranch in Big Sur and Marks Ranch in South Salinas. Each offers its own unique beauty, from diverse ecosystems, unique flora and fauna, spectacular views, historic buildings, and great hiking trails.
Stay tuned, as we will share updates via these emails and on social media. If you have any questions about the Mitteldorf Preserve closure or our other preserves, please reach out to Burke Boynton or by calling (831) 886-7817.
Thank you for your understanding, patience, and support in Big Sur Land Trust’s work to protect and care for the natural landscapes of Monterey County.
Upcoming Events & Volunteer Opportunities
Photo Credit: Monterey County Weekly
As We See It — And How It Could Be
Now – Friday, June 26
Pacific Grove Art Center, Pacific Grove
Big Sur Land Trust is one of six environmental nonprofits chosen to have an art piece created based on a project the organization supports in As We See It – And How It Could Be. The art exhibit is open now through June 26 at Pacific Grove Art Center, 568 Lighthouse Ave. in Pacific Grove. Monterey County Weekly has more >>
Trail Work at Mitteldorf Preserve
Wednesday, May 20
2:00pm – 5:00pm
Palo Corona Regional Park, Carmel
Join BSLT to clear trails and remove invasive plants at Mitteldorf Preserve. We will walk the lower sections of the preserve, clearing the trails of debris and pulling any invasive species that we can identify. This work will keep the trails clear for hikers, provide safe vehicle access, and act as fire mitigation. Register >>
San Jose Creek 2-mile Hike
Saturday, May 23
9:00am – 2:00pm
Palo Corona Regional Park, Carmel
Join Big Sur Land Trust for a gentle 2-mile guided hike along the San Jose Creek Trail. Shuttles will transport hikers from Palo Corona Regional Park (Rancho Cañada) to the Ishxenta State Park San Jose Creek trailhead, which is only accessible through guided hikes. Register >>
Volunteer Orientation
Thursday, June 4
12:00pm – 1:00pm
Online
Through this orientation, you will become more familiar with Big Sur Land Trust’s mission, history, programs, organizational structure, and volunteer opportunities so that you are more fully informed about the organization you hope to so generously support through volunteering. This will also be your chance to interact with staff members and ask questions. Register >>
Monthly Meeting at Ensen
Friday, June 12
5:30pm – 7:30pm
Ensen Community Park, Salinas
Let’s catch up and plan for next month’s park activities!/¡Reunámonos para planificar las actividades del parque para el próximo mes! Snacks and refreshments will be provided for all participants. Whether you can stay for the whole time or just drop in, all are welcome! Register >>
Monthly Park Clean-up at Ensen
Saturday, June 20
10:30am – 11:30am
Ensen Community Park, Salinas
Join Big Sur Land Trust and Friends of Ensen Community Park Volunteers for our Monthly Park Clean-up at Ensen Community Park! This is a great opportunity to meet your neighbors, get some fresh air, and hear updates on the restoration project. Help clean up our local park and make our community a better place for everyone! Register >>