One thing I often take for granted living in Oregon, is all the trees and the natural beauty all around us at all times of the year! If you are like me and maybe you want to get more in touch with nature or maybe you just want to run through the wilderness, the Huckleberry Half Marathon 10k and 5k race is a perfect race for you!
This race is now in its 5th year and all of the course options are on paved paths with rolling hills and offering scenic views of the Salmon River. The main event, the half marathon, starts its way through woodsy neighborhoods and a nice golf course with glorious views of the Cascade Range then leads runners beyond the border of the National Forest road to the turnaround at the Green Canyon trailhead—with scenery of the Salmon River, campground and bridge all along the way. There is an option to walk the entire half marathon but they mean it (walkers only if you choose that!) – but if you want to run/walk some then you will need to do the run option. The 10k and 5k routes both run through neighboorhoods with the 5k route going through The Resort at the Mountain. If you’ve wanted to explore the Mt. Hood area up close and personal, this is the place to do it at!
The Huckleberry Half boasts itself as having “no long lines, traffic or parking issues” so that you can relax before the race starts. Their two bigfoot mascots will be roaming around to take those pre and post race pics with in the laid back environment. Registration for all races include a custom hand carved bigfoot finishers medal and a free beer coupon to be used at the nearby local pub. Proceeds from registration fees will go towards the Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp, which helps empower children and adults with disabilities. This race is chip timed and there are cash rewards for top 2 overall in the half marathon distance and ribbons to top 3 in age division for all distances.
If you want to make a weekend adventure of it, camping is free right where the race is happening! Set up your campsite and enjoy the views!
What: Huckleberry Half Marathon, 10k and 5k race
When: Saturday August 5, 2017
- Half marathon Walk start: 7:10am
- Half marathon Run start: 7:30am
- 10K start: 8am
- 5k start: 8:30am
Where: Start at Welches High School at 24903 E Salmon River Rd, Welches, OR 97067
- $69 – half marathon
- $45 – 10k
- $35 – 5k
