Operation RATTLESNAKE

Operation RATTLESNAKE

April 05, 2025 | Santa Monica, California, USA

Distance: 6 / 9 / 14 +/- miles

Weight: 15 / 20 / 25 lbs dry

Elevation: 1,335 / 2,070 / 2,851 +/- elevation gain

Brief Start Time: Saturday, April 05, 2025 at 0730 hrs

Event Start Time: Saturday, April 05, 2025 at 0800 hrs

Start Location: Temescal Gateway Park, CA

Event Finish Time: Saturday, April 05, 2025 at 1600 hrs

Finish Location: Temescal Gateway Park, CA

Situation

Operation RATTLESNAKE takes place in the stunning Pacific Palisades mountains and canyons, right next to the world-famous Santa Monica. With three different distances and weight options to choose from, this event offers something for every candidate. Whether you're looking for a moderate challenge or a rigorous test of endurance, Operation RATTLESNAKE provides an unforgettable experience amidst the breathtaking scenery of Southern California.

Mission

Operation RATTLESNAKE 6. Candidates must carry 15 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 6 +/- mile route in under 4 hours to pass and under 1.5 hours to earn the GBF Operation RATTLESNAKE 6 Dog Tag.

Operation RATTLESNAKE 9. Candidates must carry 20 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 9 +/- mile route in under 5 hours to pass and under 2.5 hours to earn the GBF Operation RATTLESNAKE 9 Dog Tag.

Operation RATTLESNAKE 14. Candidates must carry 25 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 14 +/- mile route in under 6 hours to pass and under 4 hours to earn the GBF Operation RATTLESNAKE 14 Dog Tag.

Execution

Candidates will meet at the Temescal Gateway 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 RATTLESNAKE 6 is here.

The route for Operation RATTLESNAKE 9 is here.

The route for Operation RATTLESNAKE 14 is here.

Weight. Candidates must carry a minimum of 15 / 20 / 25 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
• 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)
• Bear Spray

Dress. Candidates' dress will be a personal choice.

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 25. 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.