Cape Lookout State Park sits on the coast not too far from Tillamook, averaging close to 120,000 visitors a year. It’s also been the site of the Race to the Cape run for the past three years – and again this year, on March 6. This is a true trail run, which is why it is limited to only 50 registrants. With a 10 a.m. start time, there’s plenty of time to get there from Portland or Salem without having to wake up super early.
The trail course is 5 miles starting from the day use area of the park and following the North Trail to the end of the Cape Trail, with a difference of almost 900 feet of elevation between the high and low points of the course; and then a return on the same route for a total race distance of 10 miles. There is a water/aid station on the course where the North and Cape Trails intersect – it looks like it’s around the 2.5/7.5 mile point.
The race organizers have this to say about the race: “This is considered to be a fun run because you will want to bring a camera for the magnificent views you will see along the way.”
Race to the Cape 10 Mile Fun Run
When: March 6, 2016, at 10 a.m.
Where: Cape Lookout State Park, 13000 Whiskey Creek Rd, Tillamook, OR 97141
Register: Online here; $35, includes finisher’s medal plus snacks and drinks at the finish line; don’t forget to bring $5 on the day of the race for the parking fee