2026 Silver Falls Trail Challenge
Silver Falls Trail Challenge is scheduled for February 28th, 2026, at Silver Falls State Park in Sublimity, Oregon. The event takes place in a natural setting known for its scenic beauty and dramatic waterfalls, offering participants a unique opportunity to explore the park's trails. Weather conditions for the event date are expected to be cool, with temperatures ranging between 35°F and 45°F and a possibility of light rain. The trail experience is designed to challenge athletes of varying skill levels, with a focus on endurance, navigation, and physical preparedness. The course includes a mix of natural terrain, including rocky paths, gradual inclines, and flat stretches, with modifications in place due to trail closures caused by recent storm damage.
What distances are available for this event?
- →Quarter Marathon
- →Half Marathon
- →12 Mile Ruck Challenge
What are the start times for each race?
- →Quarter Marathon: 9:30 AM
- →Half Marathon: 9:00 AM
- →12 Mile Ruck Challenge: 9:00 AM
What is the starting location for all races?
- →South Falls Day-Use Area
What is the course structure for the Quarter Marathon?
- →The course consists of one clockwise loop around the Trail of Ten Falls, starting and finishing at the Orchards Shelter. Runners will run behind South Falls and Lower South Falls. The course deviates at the Canyon & Winter Trail Junction, with the missing mileage compensated by adding the Bike Path Loop (approximately 1.8 miles) near the 4-mile mark. After completing the Bike Path Loop, runners return to the Rim Trail and follow the original course back to the finish.
What is the course structure for the Half Marathon?
- →The course involves a double loop of the Quarter Marathon route. The first loop follows the standard Trail of Ten Falls clockwise route. On the second loop, runners are guided down the Maple Ridge Trail, bypassing the Southern Falls, before linking back to the Canyon Trail and returning to the finish.
What is the course structure for the 12 Mile Ruck Challenge?
- →The course follows the same route as the Half Marathon, with one key difference: on the second loop, ruck participants are directed onto the Winter Trail instead of the Bike Path Loop. This modification reduces the course by over one mile. Participants must pay close attention to trail markings and volunteers to avoid adding extra distance.
What are the requirements for the 12 Mile Ruck Challenge?
- →Participants must carry a 35lb weighted pack or a 40lb weighted vest. The weight will be checked at both the start and finish.
How much does registration cost?
- →Quarter Marathon: $59 (after 1/1/25), $69 regular, $75 Day-of (Cash/Check/Venmo)
- →Half Marathon: $69 (after 1/1/25), $79 regular, $85 Day-of (Cash/Check/Venmo)
- →12 Mile Ruck Challenge: $79 (after 1/1/25), $89 regular, $95 Day-of (Cash/Check/Venmo)
What is the packet pick-up schedule?
- →Friday, February 27th: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM at Shelter Orchard
- →Race Day (February 28th): Starting at 7:00 AM
What is the refund policy?
- →No refunds are available. However, if a participant contacts organizers before race week, their entry can be transferred to any other event of equal value within 12 months.
What course maps are available?
- →Course maps are accessible via Gaia GPS links provided by race organizers.
What is the weather forecast for the event date?
- →The expected weather conditions for February 28th, 2026, in Sublimity, Oregon, are cool, with temperatures between 35°F and 45°F and a chance of light rain. Participants should prepare for variable conditions and dress accordingly.