Festivals

In our festivals section, we will present our readers with the upcoming trail runs in the Northwestern part of the US. The list will be updated accordingly.

Idaho

Race the Wolf 32 Miles

Race the Wolf offers an exceptional trail running experience, set against the backdrop of North Idaho’s untamed wilderness. The course is renowned for its challenging steep ascents, single-track paths, and sections of super-fast two-track trails that promise an unforgettable adventure.

Boise Front Trail Run 6 Miles

The Boise Front Trail Run is a cherished event starting at the scenic Bogus Basin’s Frontier Nordic Lodge. As a non-profit endeavor, the Boise Front Trail Run is thrilled to announce its partnership with Ridge to Rivers this year, dedicating all race proceeds to support this essential local organization.

Participants are encouraged to embrace the spirit of conservation by taking the Happy Trails Pledge, reinforcing their commitment to the responsible enjoyment of Boise’s trail system.

Participants should note that those registering after July 1st may face limited availability in selecting their preferred race t-shirt size, a reminder to sign up early to secure their gear for race day.

Farm Life 3 Mile Trail Run

Farm Life Trail Run, a highlight of the Bonneville County Fair set for August 5th, returns this year, two days before the fair. This farm-themed adventure offers a flat and scenic course that weaves through corrals, horse barns, and stretches of golden fields, providing an immersive experience in rural beauty.

Participants are rewarded with a finisher’s award and a special water bottle to commemorate their journey, and with abundant water stations dotted along the route, staying hydrated is a breeze. Take advantage of the early bird registration fee of just $10 until June 30th, after which the price increases to $15.

Montana

Expedition 7 Mile Trail Race

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Nikolay Timoshchuk Jr (@nikotjr)

Expedition Trail Race route is mainly on single-track trails with occasional crossings over asphalt roads. It includes challenging turns and offers expansive views of the Jefferson Valley. Runners will tackle over 2,200 feet of elevation gain and more than 2,100 feet of descent.

While trails are usually dry and free from snow and mud by this time, April weather can be variable, so participants should prepared for any conditions.

Awards are given to the top performers in two categories:

• Male
• Female

Helena Outdoor Triathlon

Participants have the opportunity to swim spring-fed man-made lake, cycle on tranquil two-lane roads with the added security of sheriff patrols, and run a flat, fast trail course. With options for an aqua-bike and a duathlon sprint distance, there’s something for every level of athlete.

All net proceeds from the Helena outdoor Triathlon are donated to charity, making your effort not just a personal achievement but a contribution to a greater cause. Every participant in the triathlon, duathlon, or aqua-bike will be rewarded with a post-race meal, a shirt, a finisher’s medal, and age group awards for the top three finishers

Pronghorn Pursuit 7 Mile Trail Run

The Pronghorn Pursuit Trail Run offers a challenging and scenic 7-mile course that is sure to test the endurance and skill of every participant. Comprising 90% of single-track trails, runners will go through rugged terrain that includes a total of 2400 feet of climbing.

To accommodate participants, early race packet pick-up and late registration are available the day before the race. The race is scheduled to begin at 9:00 am, offering runners the cool, crisp air of the morning.

Participants need to note that the course may be subject to changes, with all updates promptly provided on the event page to keep everyone informed and ready.

Trail Rail Run 50 Miles

The Trail Rail Run 50 Mile begins at the historic state line, taking participants over two historical train trestles and through a tunnel, culminating in a memorable finish at St. Regis Community Park. Registration fees for each event vary, with an important note that prices will increase after May 26, 2024.

Individual runners who register for the race before April 10th are rewarded with a finisher’s jacket, marking their achievement and participation in this distinctive event.

Yellowstone Trail Race 30 Miles

The Yellowstone Trail Race offers an unparalleled running experience near the iconic Yellowstone National Park, Given the proximity to wildlife, carrying bear spray is advised for participants’ safety.

Each registration comes with a race bib, a medal for finishers, a custom race sticker, precise timing services, and results posted online, complemented by a competitive points system. The challenging 50K course is designed as two loops, pushing runners with an elevation gain of 1,900 feet.

Bob Marshall Trail Race 30 Miles

The Bob Marshall Trail Race, set against the picturesque backdrop of Seeley Lake, MT 59868, at the Seeley Creek Nordic Trails, promises an unforgettable racing experience for participants.

With a course that challenges and delights in equal measure, runners are advised to prepare for all eventualities by including additional items such as dry shirts, extra socks, and snacks at the drop station.

Competitors stand to gain not just in terms of personal achievement but also through a competitive points system, with the chance to win prizes from esteemed sponsors like Hammer Nutrition and Super Coffee.

Montana is home to many dangerous roads that you should pay attention to and prepare before traveling there.

Oregon

Tillamook Burn 50 Miles

The Tillamook Burn 50-mile race offers a rigorous and meticulously planned event for participants, starting with an early check-in window from 3:55 AM to 4:45 AM exclusively at Reehers Camp. There will be no bib pickup available at the starting line.

To facilitate the transportation of runners, shuttle buses are scheduled to depart from Reehers Camp at 4:50 AM, allowing for drop-offs. The race itself commences at 6:00 AM, challenging participants to complete the course within a 14-hour timeframe, with the final cutoff time set at 8:00 PM at the finish line.

Spence Mountain Run 30 Miles

The Spence Mountain Run is an event that challenges participants with a 50k and a shorter version that precedes it. Runners will face the daunting task of ascending Spence Mountain not once, but twice, testing their endurance and agility.

The initial climb is particularly challenging, as it involves a 2.5-mile stretch on a double black diamond trail, notorious for its technicality and a steep 1,200-foot elevation gain amidst a rocky terrain.

Later in the race, participants will tackle another ascent back to the summit, this time gaining approximately 1,500 feet over 5 miles.

Oakridge Triple Summit Challenge 18 Miles

The Oakridge Triple Summit Challenge is a captivating race that begins and concludes at Greenwaters Park, weaving through the breathtaking scenery of the Willamette National Forest. Along the course, runners will encounter three aid stations, accessible a total of six times, ensuring ample support throughout this demanding challenge.

The race’s pinnacle moment, the King/Queen of The Mountain summit, awaits at mile 9, followed by a thrilling sprint segment that stretches from the summit’s peak down to mile 14.5.

Washington

Orcas Island 15 Miles

The Orcas Island, hosted in Olga, WA, offers trail runners a distinctive experience. Participants traverse through ancient forests, tackle challenging climbs, and are rewarded with spectacular views of the nearby islands, towering mountains, and Puget Sound.

The event fosters a sense of community, inviting runners to spend a weekend immersed in the beauty of the island alongside like-minded enthusiasts. The course itself is a mix of terrains, from smooth, fast trails to those that are more demanding, featuring roots, rocks, and steep sections.

Best of Big Creek 14 Miles

The “Best of Big Creek” is a summit race that stretches approximately 14 miles, guiding participants from the Big Creek Campground up the challenging Mt. Ellinor trail to the very summit of Mt. Ellinor. This demanding course boasts a total elevation gain of over 5,000 feet, presenting a formidable challenge to even the most seasoned trail runners.

Upon reaching the summit, racers will turn around to retrace their steps back to the starting point, allowing for an exhilarating descent where they can truly “bomb” their way down the mountain.

Mt Si Hill Climb 10 Miles

The Mt Si Hill Climb starts and finishes at the Pro Ski and Mountain Service shop in North Bend. This event, the shortest in the series at 17 kilometers, begins with a gentle couple of miles, allowing runners to warm up before the real challenge begins.

Upon reaching the Little Si trailhead, the ascent becomes relentless, with a staggering 3,500 feet of vertical gain testing the limits of endurance and breath. The return, down the Mt Si Trail back to North Bend, is notorious for its “quad smashing” intensity, making this event a memorable test of will and physical prowess.

Iron Goat Trail 6 Miles

The Iron Goat Trail offers an unparalleled opportunity to hike or walk amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Cascade Mountains. This moderately challenging course greets participants with a 700 ft elevation gain within the first 0.8 miles, setting the stage for an adventure that is as rewarding as it is demanding.

Limited to just 75 registrants, this exclusive event ensures an intimate experience with nature, where each participant must complete the course within 4 hours.

Wyoming

Trail Mix 10 Mile Run

The Trail Mix Run offers a 10-mile course that rewards runners with breathtaking views of the mountain, Yesness Pond. The 2022 and 2023 events saw perfect weather conditions, welcoming 60 participants to the trail. It is to be expected that the weather will be the same this year.

It’s worth noting that some editions of the race in previous years have encountered muddy conditions, adding an extra layer of challenge and adventure to the event.

Med Bow Rail 26 Miles

The Med Bow Rail Marathon has runners taking on a road along the Rail Trail from the Pelton Creek Trailhead to the serene setting of Lake Owen. With an average elevation of 8,926 feet, this marathon challenges participants with its high-altitude terrain while providing the comfort of a gently graded, wide, gravel path.

Designed for both competitive and recreational participants, the race is fully supported with six aid stations and offers a start/finish area at Lake Owen, near Albany, WY, ensuring a fun and safe trail experience.

Run with the Horses 26 Miles

The participants will be treated to stunning vistas that stretch endlessly into the horizon, with the possibility of spotting wild horses and other native wildlife along the route.

This out-and-back course challenges runners to push themselves to the halfway point before making their return to Green River, ensuring a full immersion in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

To support runners, Run with the Horses has aid stations stocked with water and Gatorade will be available every 2 miles, starting from mile 2, along with strategically placed port-a-potties for convenience.

Note: If you’re a fan of horses, there are horseback riding trails and tours in Glacier National Park!