What is the terrain actually like?

Expect a classic PNW profile: steep climbs, technical singletrack, and flowy double track. You’ll be weaving through old pine forests, huckleberry groves, and bear grass meadows. It isn't a "smooth" course; it’s rugged. The 50K carries 6,000ft of gain, while the 25K packs 3,500ft into just 16 miles. This is high-effort running, not a treadmill simulation.

Which distance should I pick?

The 50K is the flagship, starting at 7:00am, but it’s a serious undertaking with a 9.5-hour cutoff. The 25K (7:30am) is arguably the "sweet spot" for those wanting technical grit without the ultra-distance mental fatigue, and it qualifies you for the North Bend Skyline 30k Championship via the Mountainrunningraces ↗ series. The 10K (8:00am) is a deceptive beast—it's actually ~7.5 miles and hits 1,800ft of gain, so don't treat it like a road race.

What do I need to know about race day support?

The aid stations are decent but sparse on the longer distances. You'll get water, Skratch, fruit, pickles, and Coke, but bring your own gels—they are not provided. For the 50K and 25K, note that crew and drop bags are strictly prohibited at the Mt. Kit Carson aid stations (AS3/AS4 for the 50K). If you're running the 50K, you need to be moving; the Kit Carson cutoff is 8.5 hours.

Is the entry fee worth it?

The pricing is tiered and increases on fixed dates (March 1 and May 1), so don't dally. At $109 for the 50K and $79 for the 25K, it’s fair for a specialized mountain race, especially considering the technicality and the scenery. The 10K at $49 is a solid deal for the amount of climbing you're getting.

What's the weather and gear situation?

June in Spokane can be unpredictable. You’ll likely start in the cool, crisp mountain air (think 50°F/10°C), but as you climb and the sun hits those meadows, it can warm up quickly. Bring layers for the start and a highly breathable kit for the climbs. Since the terrain is technical, don't skimp on your footwear—you need aggressive lugs for the descents.

Is there any prize money on the line?

Yes, there is a cash purse for all distances. The top three male and female finishers in each category will split the pot, with 1st place taking home $200 plus sponsor prizes.