If you haven’t been out to run at Cape Lookout State Park near Tillamook, you are missing out. Last Spring I tackled the North Trail and the Cape Trail – out-and-backs on both. I got some amazing pictures, sank shin deep in a lot of mud, marveled at some great views, and ultimately had a memorable experience. For the 5th year, Race to the Cape is taking to these trails for a small (100 participants max, but historically much less), race.
The course starts and finishes at the bottom of the North trail and gains 850 feet in the first two miles. I can attest that this is no easy trek. There are single and double track trails and continual switchbacks. Once the North Trail reaches it’s pinnacle, it intersects with the Cape Trail and heads out on the long outcropping into the ocean. I love this trail – it’s just a mixture of beauty and when you hit the end, it’s a mesmerazing view. While there is some gravel on this trail, there are a lot of areas with primarily dirt (i.e. mud) surfaces, making things all the more challenging. You may want to just chill at the end when you get there, as there can be some great ocean views and even visions of Haystack Rock as well. On the reverse, you get to overlook Cape Meares and the Three Arch Rocks as well. This is definitely a beautiful race.
Afterwards, there will be finisher medals for all who participate, along with some light snacks and drinks.
Details of the race –
When: March 4th, 2018 at 10a
Where: Cape Lookout State Park
Distance: 10 miler
Price: $30; Sign up here
- $5 parking fee NOT included
