Paramount Ranch in Agoura Hills is the site of many beloved film classics and TV series, including Westworld, The X-Files, Beau Geste, A Farewell to Arms, Helter Skelter, Dr. Quinn-Medicine Woman, The Rifleman, Gunsmoke, and Perry Mason episodes, among many others. The 2700 acre property was purchased by Paramount Pictures in 1927 for that sole use of being used as a “movie ranch” and was acquired by the National Park Service (NPS) in 1982. It became a tourist and community destination featuring scenic hiking trails and the famed old western town, which remained an active cinematic resource.
Sadly, the Ranch was devastated by the 2018 Woolsey Fire, which burned 88% of NPS land in the Santa Monica Mountains. Fleet Feet of Agoura Hills and The Future Track Running Pack launched the race series in 2022 to benefit efforts to restore the historic ranch buildings that were lost in the fire. Now that restoration funding is complete with the rebuild well underway, the race supports scholarships for SAMO Fund’s internship restoration programs. The race is co-sponsored by SAMO Fund, Balega and Brooks.
Long-time residents and runners in the Conejo Valley will recall the Paramount Ranch running series in times past that brought together runners of all ages. This series aims also to recapture that enthusiasm and sense of community from years past. Races will be held on three consecutive Thursday evenings in July: 11, 18, and 25, beginning with the Kiddie 1K at 6:00 pm, followed by the 5K trail/road race at 6:30 pm. Online registration (5K $10, 1K free): runsignup.com/Race/CA/AgouraHills/RunfortheRanch2024
Paramount Ranch is located at 2903 Cornell Road, Agoura Hills.
