Tick season is off to an early and unusually intense start in 2026!
Recent reports are showing a spike in tick-related ER visits across the region as early as late April. While ticks are technically a year-round presence here, spring through early summer (March through June) is when the risk really ramps up. That’s when nymphs—tiny, hard-to-see ticks—emerge in large numbers and are most likely to transmit diseases like Lyme.
Now is the time to be careful.
Ticky Behavior
Ticks don’t jump or fly—they wait. They tend to hang out on tall grasses, low brush, and the edges of trails, often right around ankle height. When you brush past, they latch on.
Be mindful when running on singletrack, overgrown trails, in shaded wooded sections, or whenever vegetation is brushing your legs.
Also keep in mind that nymphs can be as small as a poppy seed. You won’t feel them, and you probably won’t see them unless you’re looking carefully.
Simple Habits That Make a Big Difference
Stay Centered on the Trail
It sounds obvious, but it matters. The closer you stay to the middle of the trail, the less contact you’ll have with vegetation where ticks are waiting.
Dress With Awareness
Not every run calls for full coverage, but when you’re in higher-risk areas:
- Light-colored socks or calf sleeves make ticks easier to spot
- Longer socks or tights create a barrier at the ankle (a common entry point)
- Avoid brushing bare legs against grass and brush whenever possible
Use Repellent Strategically
- DEET or picaridin on exposed skin can help
- Permethrin-treated clothing is especially effective for runners who are out frequently
Do a Quick Post-Run Check
Make this part of your cooldown routine:
- Ankles and lower legs
- Behind knees
- Waistline
- Armpits
- Hairline and scalp
Shower and Dry Your Gear
- Shower within a couple hours of getting home
- Toss your clothes in the dryer on high heat for ~10 minutes to kill any ticks that hitched a ride
If You Find a Tick
Don’t panic—but don’t ignore it either.
- Use fine-tipped tweezers
- Grab the tick as close to the skin as possible
- Pull straight out steadily (don’t twist or crush it)
After removal, keep an eye out over the next few weeks for:
- Rash (especially a bullseye pattern)
- Fever
- Fatigue
If anything seems off, it’s worth getting checked.
The Bottom Line
This isn’t about avoiding trails—it’s about being aware. Northern California has some of the best running terrain anywhere, and tick exposure is just one of those environmental factors, like sun or hydration, that you learn to manage.
A little attention before and after your run goes a long way. Stay on trail, check yourself after, and keep enjoying the miles.
