Vashon Island Ultramarathon and Trail Run 2026
The Vashon Island Ultramarathon and Trail Run 2026 takes place on June 6, 2026, on Vashon Island, United States, primarily utilizing the Gateway Trail system within the Island Center Forest. Participants can expect typical early summer conditions in the Pacific Northwest, which generally feature mild temperatures and moderate humidity, though runners should be prepared for varying conditions. The event offers a variety of distances through rolling single-track and double-track terrain, featuring both public and private lands with an elevation change of approximately 770 feet per loop.
What distances are available for this event?
- →50K ultramarathon
- →20-mile trail run
- →10-mile trail run
What is the race day schedule?
- →7:00 am – 8:15 am: 50k Bib/t-shirt Pickup
- →8:15 am: 50K Race Course Briefing / Announcements
- →8:30 am: 50K Race Start
- →8:30 am – 9:15 am: 10 and 20 mile Bib/t-shirt Pickup
- →9:15 am: 10 & 20 Mile Race Course Briefing / Announcements
- →9:30 am: 10 & 20 Mile Race Start
- →12:00 pm: Post Race Food with Refreshments
- →2:30 pm: Cut-off for last 20 mile and 50K runners heading out on third loop
- →5:30 pm: Course closes
What are the new team competition categories?
This year introduces Team Competitions where three team members combine their finish times. There are three specific categories:
- →Female
- →Male
- →Mixed
Note: Teams must have a Team Captain to report times to the Finish Tent.
How is the registration pricing structured?
- →Pricing remains the same as last year.
- →The registration company uses "complete pricing" to comply with Section 1770(a)(29) of the California Civil Code, meaning the price shown includes all fees and taxes with no hidden charges at checkout.
What amenities are provided at the aid stations?
Aid stations are located at miles 6 and 10 (50k runners pass these three times). Stations include:
- →Water, Coke, and Mt. Dew
- →Tailwind (sugar)
- →Salt and Potato Chips
- →Fresh fruit (Watermelon, Cantaloupe, sliced Oranges, halved Bananas)
- →PBJs
- →Gels (Gu) and Stroop Waffles (Gu)
- →Various junk food (e.g., Paydays)
- →Energetic and enthusiastic helpers
What are the course terrain and technical details?
- →The course is rolling with primarily single track and double track, supplemented by dirt roads, gravel driveways, grass shoulders, and short paved sections.
- →Elevation change is roughly 770 feet per loop.
- →While mostly well-groomed, runners should be alert for roots, downed logs, and sharp changes in elevation.
- →The course is not a Hardrock Qualifier and does not award UTMB Stones.
What are the rules regarding dogs and etiquette?
- →Non-human animal companions are not allowed to accompany runners while passing through the sanctuary.
- →Once outside the sanctuary, dogs are permitted if they are under control, on a leash, and do not disturb others.
- →Runners should yield to all motorized vehicles on paved roads and be courteous to equestrians, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
Are there any special programs or certifications?
- →This is a Youth Certified Trail Race in partnership with the ATRA ↗ and USATF ↗.
- →Runners aged 18 and younger receive discounted registration.
- →Two scholarships are available for qualified applicants.
- →The event is "Trail Sister Approved," adhering to standards for equal podium spots, equal awards, and menstrual products at aid stations. You can learn more at Trail Sisters ↗.
- →The event conforms to WSER ↗ pregnancy deferral policies and SheRaces ↗ guidelines.
What is the refund policy?
- →There are no refunds for registered runners.
- →For inquiries regarding roll-overs (granted only for reasons outside the runner's control) or exchanging an entry to another person, please contact the Race Director.