2026 Birch Bay Road Race
The 2026 Birch Bay Road Race will take place on April 11, 2026, in Blaine, Washington, USA, a picturesque seaside village near the Canadian border. The event will start and finish at North Bay Community Church, offering participants a scenic route along the shoreline of Birch Bay. On this date, Blaine is expected to have mild temperatures, with daytime highs around 55°F (13°C) and light winds, creating ideal conditions for runners and walkers. The race will provide a mix of coastal views, opportunities to spot local wildlife, and a chance to experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The event features three distances—5K, 15K, and 30K—each with unique challenges and scenic routes. Walkers are welcome at all distances, making it an inclusive event for all fitness levels.
What distances are available for this event?
- →5K
- →15K
- →30K
What is the course like for this event?
The course runs along the scenic shoreline of Birch Bay, offering coastal views, crisp sea air, and opportunities to spot eagles and herons. The start and finish line are located at North Bay Community Church. Specific course details can be found on the following links:
Strava ↗ for the 5K, Strava ↗ for the 15K, and Strava ↗ for the 30K.
What type of aid stations are available during the race?
Aid stations are available on the 15K and 30K courses, but not on the 5K. The 15K has aid at approximately 1.75, 3.75, 5.5, and 7.5 miles, while the 30K has aid at approximately 1.75, 3.75, 5.5, 7.5, 9.5, 11, 13, 15, and 16.5 miles. Aid stations provide water, GU Gels, and Tailwind electrolyte drink. Portable restrooms are available every 2–3 miles and at the start/finish. The event is cupless, so participants are encouraged to bring a handheld bottle or hydration pack, or request a reusable foldable cup at the event.
How much does registration cost for this event?
- →5K: $33 (October), $38 (November–December), $45 (January–February), $50 (March–April), $60 (race day)
- →15K: $58 (October), $63 (November–December), $70 (January–February), $75 (March–April), $85 (race day)
- →30K: $77 (October), $82 (November–December), $87 (January–February), $92 (March–April), $100 (race day)
What is the Club Challenge for this event?
The Club Challenge is a team competition open to both US and Canadian running clubs for the 15K and 30K distances. Points are awarded based on age-group finishes, with the top 5 members per team by age-group place scoring. Remaining members may displace competitors from other teams. The club with the lowest aggregate score wins, and a plaque is awarded to the top club. A minimum of 5 members is required to be eligible for placement, and a tie-breaker is determined by the 6th member's age-group place.
Are walkers welcome at this event?
Yes, walkers are welcome across all distances. The event is inclusive and open to all fitness levels, allowing participants to enjoy the scenic route at their own pace.
What is included in the registration fee?
The registration fee includes access to the race course, aid stations (for 15K and 30K), and post-race food and drinks (for all distances). Participants are responsible for bringing their own hydration or requesting a reusable cup at the event. The event is cupless, so participants are encouraged to bring a handheld bottle or hydration pack.