Palo Alto Run Club is a friendly, inclusive community of runners — from casual joggers to competitive athletes — who share a love for running and connecting with others.
We host regular runs in Palo Alto and on the Stanford campus, Saturday group runs at Sawyer Camp Trail in San Mateo, and monthly trail runs throughout the Bay Area.
Our runs typically have up to 30 participants, and everyone runs at their own pace. Groups tend to form naturally, with paces typically ranging from about 6 minutes per mile (3:43/km) to 10 minutes per mile (6:12/km).
New members are always welcome! You’re invited to join us for a run or two to see if our club is the right fit. Please bring a signed waiver form if you’re not yet a member. Note that this is an adult running group; participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Our Mission
Palo Alto Run Club provides a supportive community for runners of all levels. Our club gets together for social runs and events to help you achieve your fitness goals. We are dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for every runner, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned athlete.
Our History
In the summer of 1986, runners John Bird and Jeff Wildfogel approached the Recreation Department of the City of Palo Alto about starting a running club. They got an enthusiastic response from department staff, especially Ann Cribbs and Tom Osborne. The city offered valuable resources including meeting room, printing and mailing services, advice, and encouragement. On November 26, 1986, about 25 people attended the club’s first business meeting, followed by a group run.
Now independent of the City of Palo Alto, the Palo Alto Run Club includes members from throughout the bay area, and has grown to over 200 members, many of whom participate in club activities.
