Strawberry Fields Forever 2026
Best For: First-time ultra runners or gear-testers who want a controlled, predictable environment.
Course Character: Rolling and highly runnable; low-impact loops.
Logistics Score: ⭐⭐⭐
Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
---
This is the ultimate "lab test" race. Because it’s a repetitive loop with minimal vertical gain, you aren't fighting technical terrain; you're fighting your own stomach and your own mind. It is arguably one of the most efficient ways to log massive mileage without the logistical nightmare of a point-to-point mountain sufferfest.
Strawberry Fields Forever 2026 takes place on Friday, June 20, 2026, in North Bonneville, United States. The event offers 10k, 50k, 100k, and 100-mile distances. It is a standout choice for runners who want frequent aid access and a course that rewards steady pacing over technical scrambling.
What kind of terrain am I actually running?
The course is a series of ~6.2 mile (10k) loops through a mix of fields, forests, and riverfront scenery. It is remarkably "gentle" for an ultra, featuring roughly 200 feet of gain and loss per loop. You won't find soul-crushing climbs here, but you also won't find a flat road marathon. It’s dirt and gravel—runnable, predictable, and perfect if you want to focus on fueling rather than watching every single step for rocks and roots. You can check the route on Strava ↗.
Which distance should I pick?
The 10k is a quick morning blast at 9:00 am. For the real meat of the event, the 50k, 100k, and 100-milers all kick off at 8:00 am. If you are new to the ultra world, the 50k is the sweet spot here. The loop format means you are never far from home, making it much less intimidating than a single-stage long course.
How am I going to survive the night?
The logistics are built for the long haul. You have a central aid station at the start/finish every 6.2 miles, stocked for the full 30-hour window with the essentials: peanut butter and strawberry jam sandwiches (on brand), pizza, electrolytes, and bars. Because it’s a loop, you can set up a tent at the North Bonneville Ball Fields to use as a basecamp for naps and gear swaps. There are also bathrooms located along the route, though you'll need to take a short detour for the fourth one.
What's the weather situation in June?
June in the Columbia River Gorge can be deceptive. Expect pleasant, mild temperatures at the 8:00 am start, but the Gorge is famous for wind and rapid shifts. While the river provides a breeze, the sun can hit the fields hard mid-day. Pack layers for the early morning and the inevitable temperature drop if you're still out there in the middle of the night.
What do I get for finishing?
You’ll get a medal, but be aware: they only award medals for the specific distance you registered for. If you decide to up your distance mid-race (which is allowed until the Friday before), make sure your registration matches your intent. For those chasing podiums, prizes are donated by Katoola.
Is this a budget-friendly race?
For an ultra, the pricing is incredibly reasonable. At $40 for the 10k, $100 for the 50k, $125 for the 100k, and $175 for the 100-miler, this is one of the better values you'll find in the US. It’s a low-cost way to get a high-quality, chip-timed trail experience.