Ferndale Horseracing

The Ferndale Race Track was a historic half-mile thoroughbred racing circuit located in the heart of Ferndale, California. For decades, it served as the home of the horse racing component for the Humboldt County Fair, widely regarded as one of the premier agricultural fairs in the state. Situated amidst the lush timber and dairy lands of California's rugged North Coast, the track traditionally hosted ten days of live racing during the fair's annual run. Horse racing was a cornerstone of the event, maintaining a continuous presence since 1935.

Many visitors and enthusiasts often remarked that the track perfectly captured the nostalgic atmosphere of a bygone era. Set within a picturesque Victorian village, the venue offered a unique charm that felt frozen in time; many argued that the experience of racing there had remained largely unchanged since the very first meeting in 1896.

The facility was perhaps most famous for its challenging "bullring" layout. The tiny half-mile track featured several notorious unbanked turns that provided constant thrills - and occasional chaos. Because many jockeys and horses were accustomed to larger, modern circuits, they often struggled to negotiate the tight, flat corners, making every race a test of nerve and precision.

Despite its deep roots in the community and its storied history, the Ferndale Race Track eventually reached the end of its run. Following the conclusion of the 2024 season, the track officially closed its gates to live racing after the California Horse Racing Board repeatedly declined to allocate new dates for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. The decision, finalized in February 2026, marked the end of over a century of equestrian tradition in Humboldt County. While the thundering hooves have fallen silent, the track remains a celebrated chapter in California's racing history.

Stakes Races at Ferndale Race Track

• Charlie Palmer Starter Handicap
• The Paul Cacci Eel River Sprint
• Land of Jazz Starter Stakes
• The Les Mademoiselle Stakes Don Harmon Memorial
• C. J. Hindley Humboldt County Marathon Starter Stake
• Ferndale Arabian Stakes
• The Ferndale Dash
• Cream City Mule Handicap

Ferndale Race Track Facts

• Half-mile track with two chutes: 5/8 mile and 7/8 mile
• Distance from last turn to finish: 530 feet
• Stable accommodations: 258 permanent, 200 portable
• Grandstand seating capacity: 1,800

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