Hey Bigfoot hunters, fans, and believers – The Molalla River Trail Race is the race for you! Not only will Bigfoot be showing up on your finisher’s medal and beanie hat, you just might see him out on the trail! According to the race website, “local folklore and Animal Planet’s Finding Bigfoot has placed Bigfoot sightings in the region.” I’d say the chance to possibly run with Bigfoot makes this a “can’t miss” race!
This event is just 20 min SE of Molalla in the Molalla River Corridor. Here racers will be running on a multi-use (horse, biking, hiking) trail system. The Molalla River Trail Race begins just up the hill from the Hardy Creek Trailhead. There will be shuttles available to transport runners from the parking area to the starting line. There is also camping available at 3 Bears and Cedar Grove Campgrounds if you wish to save yourself the commute on race day. (See race website for more information on camping.)
The Molalla River Trail Race includes a 5K, 10K, and this year’s new distance – the half marathon. Both the 10K and the half marathon include what is referred to as “the wall”, a 500 foot, 3/4 mile hill that just might force you to slow down enough to keep an eye out for Bigfoot. The half marathon route has an elevation gain of over 1500 feet, so expect to be challenged. Click here to view a full-sized map of the race courses. Please note that the 5K is the only distance allowing walkers due to time constraints. Half-marathoner and 10K runners – don’t worry, you are allowed walking breaks. Rumor has it you may need it at “the wall.”
This is a chip-timed race with hand-made awards going to the top 3 male and female finishers in each event. Each distance will be well-marked with color coded arrows to ensure everyone has a safe, on-course race. Registration is capped at 150 participants per distance (450 total), so be sure to register soon!
The Molalla River Trail Race is one of three non-profit races put on by the Molalla Running Club. 100% of any proceeds from this event will go back to the community and the trail system. Since 2011 the Molalla Running Club has been able to donate $12,745 to the community. Don’t miss out on this chance to help give back to the community, run the beautiful trails in the Molalla River Corridor, and catch of glimpse of Bigfoot!
Molalla River Trail Race Details
Date: Saturday, October 17
Times: 9:00 A.M. – Half marathon, 9:15 A.M. – 10K, 9:30 A.M. – 5K
Location: Hardy Creek Trail Head (Molalla River Trail System) Molalla, OR US 97038
Shuttle Pick Up: 122 Grange St., Molalla
Registration Prices: $35 – 5K Run or Walk
$40 – 10K Run
$50 – Half Marathon Run
Race Website: Click Here
