Bigfoot believers, this is your trail race! Held on the trails of the Molalla River Corridor, the Molalla River Trail Race is sure to include a Bigfoot sighting. After all, Animal Planet’s Finding Bigfoot has placed sightings in this area. If you aren’t lucky enough to see Bigfoot, you can run the same trails that he frequents and enjoy the beauty of this trail system used for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and (obviously) running.
The Molalla River Trail Race has a 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon distance to choose from. The 5k has the least elevation gain, while the 10K and half marathon include what is affectionately referred to as “the wall.” The wall is an oxygen depleting 500 foot 3/4+ mile hill that seems to last forever. You have to experience it! Trail conditions will depend on the weather, but overall, the trails are well cared for and make for great running. It will just be a matter of how muddy they may be on race day. Muddy or dry, the setting is beautiful and you’re sure to have an enjoyable, but challenging run.
Molalla River Trail
Due to limited parking at the trail head, there will be shuttle buses that run from the parking lot of the Foothills Community Church in Molalla. There is plenty of parking at the church, and buses will run from 7:15-8:15 a.m. Buses will also be taking runners back to the lot after the race between 10:30 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. There will be a gear check at the trail head, so you don’t have to worry about your belongings. They will be stored in a dry area while you hit the trails.
Runners will receive a finisher medal and a beanie hat (which in past years has been a pretty awesome hat!) Proceeds from this event will go back to the community and the trail system. After the race there will be awards for the top 3 male and female overall and masters for each distance.
I have run the 10K at the Molalla River Trail Race multiple times. I highly recommend this event. It is well-organized, in a great setting, and the volunteers are top-notch. I’m already registered for this year and I can’t wait! Come run with me (and Bigfoot!)
Molalla River Trail Race Details
Date: Saturday, September 28
Times:
- 9:00 A.M. – Half marathon
- 9:15 A.M. – 10K
- 9:30 A.M. – 5K
Location: Hardy Creek Trailhead, Molalla
Parking/Shuttle Location: Foothills Community Church, 122 Grange Ave, Molalla
Entry Fees:
- $35 – 5K
- $40 – 10K
- $50 – Half Marathon
Race Website: Click Here
