Operation CRYSTAL

Operation CRYSTAL

May 24, 2025 | Crystal Cove, California

Distance: 6 / 10 / 15 +/- miles

Weight: 20 lbs dry

Elevation: 922 / 1,378 / 2,329 +/- elevation gain

Brief Start Time: Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 0730 hrs

Event Start Time: Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 0800 hrs

Start Location: Coastal Peak Park, California

Event Finish Time: Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 1500 hrs

Finish Location: Coastal Peak Park, California

Situation

Operation CRYSTAL invites you to challenge yourself in the stunning Crystal Cove State Park in late May, when the trails come alive with vibrant wildflowers. With breathtaking views over the Pacific Ocean, this coastal gem offers rugged terrain and sweeping panoramas that make every step worth the effort. 

Located just 30 minutes from Huntington Beach and less than an hour from Los Angeles, it's the perfect escape into nature without venturing far from the city.

Choose your challenge—MINI at 6 miles, STANDARD at 10 miles, or MAX at 15 miles—while carrying 20 lbs dry weight on each route. Whether you're pushing for distance or simply soaking in the ocean views, Operation CRYSTAL promises an unforgettable adventure.

Mission

Operation CRYSTAL MINI. Candidates must carry 20 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 6 +/- mile route in under 4 hours to pass and under 2.5 hours to earn the GBF Operation CRYSTAL MINI Dog Tag.

Operation CRYSTAL. Candidates must carry 20 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 10 +/- mile route in under 5 hours to pass and under 3.5 hours to earn the GBF Operation CRYSTAL Dog Tag.

Operation CRYSTAL MAX. Candidates must carry 20 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 15 +/- mile route in under 6.5 hours to pass and under 5.5 hours to earn the GBF Operation CRYSTAL MAX Dog Tag.

Execution

Candidates will meet at the Coastal Peak Park. At 0730 hours, GBF Staff will give an event brief before answering any questions and releasing the candidates to begin the route at 0800 hours.

Service Support

Mapping. GBF events use the AllTrails app for navigation. To download the route from AllTrails, you will need to sign up for a membership. GBF suggests candidates have a paper map, compass, and GPS too.

Route. Ensure you download the map for offline use. Cell service is not guaranteed.

The route for Operation CRYSTAL MINI is here.

The route for Operation CRYSTAL is here.

The route for Operation CRYSTAL MAX is here.

Weight. Candidates must carry a minimum of 20 lbs dry (i.e. without food and water) in a backpack. Weight vests or sandbags are not permitted.

Equipment

Mandatory Equipment

• Backpack (waterproof inner-bags)
• Phone (fully charged)
• Phone charger
• LifeStraw (or similar water filtration system)
• Head Torch (spare batteries)
• Hydration bladder(s)
• Whistle
• Compass
• Emergency rations (see below)
• Emergency shelter
• Personal First Aid Kit

Strongly Recommended

• Maps (waterproofed)
• GPS
• Blister kit
• Pocket knife
• Chem-light/Cyalume
• Hiking poles
• MRE(s)
• Garmin InReach or Similar

Dress. Candidates' dress will be a personal choice. In late May, the weather at Crystal Cove State Park is typically mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s °F (18-24°C). Mornings can be cool with coastal fog, but it usually clears for sunny afternoons.

Checkpoints. There are no checkpoints on this route.

Water. There will be bottled water at the finish point. Candidates should carry enough water to last the route distance plus 3 additional miles, in case they get lost.

Rations. Candidates should have a minimum of 3 energy bars and 0.5 liters of water as emergency rations.

Medical. Every candidate requires a personal medical kit. GBF Staff must be made aware of any medical conditions before starting the event.

Transportation. Transport to and from the event will be at the candidate's arrangement.

Command and Signal. GBF HQ: 941-993-9432

The Fine Print

Numbers. Maximum number of candidates 30. Minimum number of candidates 10.

Refunds. Refunds will be in the form of a GBF voucher to use towards future events. Refunds must be requested 30 days before the event start date.

Event Changes. Slight changes to any event including, but not limited to route changes, brief times, start locations, and other details are under the discretion of GBF Staff.