Run Oregon loves the Columbia Gorge, and Hood River is one of our favorite places to explore. Aside from the great breweries and small-town charm, the scenery is breathtaking. There are a few cool places to run, and one of them happens to be the Columbia Gorge Marathon this fall.
As quoted from a Run Oregon blogger’s experience in a previous year:
I can only speak to the half marathon distance, but I thought the course was an ideal combination of challenging and rewarding.
While the half is well-attended, there is also a marathon in effect too (as well as a dog-friendly half and a team marathon relay). Active.com did a story on the 10 Must-Do Marathons in the World, of which this race is headlined alongside races in Patagonia and South Africa. Active.com describes it as such:
Offering spectacular views of Oregon’s fall foliage during peak season, the Columbia Gorge Marathon is one of the most scenic races in the country. Taking runners down the Historic Columbia River Highway and through the gorge, the race finishes at the Port of Hood River’s Marine Park. A region that was carved out millions of years ago by Ice Age flooding, the canyon gets as deep as 4,000 feet and runs 80 miles to create a natural border between Washington and Oregon. As you navigate the 26.2-mile distance, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas overlooking the river, as well as free-flowing waterfalls and charming small towns.
Both races are out-and-back in Hood River and starts east along the Columbia Gorge Highway. Half marathoners will turn around at the Mosier Twin Tunnels and marathoners will run through the town of Mosier and hit the Rowena Viewpoint at Mayer State Park. Not only will we be running through the turning of the leaves, but there will be vistas to breathe in and waterfalls to marvel at. Check out the race courses for the Marathon and Half Marathon here.
There will be 12 aid stations along the course for the marathon and 5 for the half, every 1 to 3 miles. Also note that there is no parking at the start line. Beginning at 7am, shuttles will run every 10 minutes and will pick up participants from the Hood River Marina Lawn, which is adjacent to the finish line. Additional shuttle info can be found here.
Following the race, there will be a great post-race celebration complete with a catered lunch. All runners will get a custom finisher’s medal and a commemorative logo tech beanie. 1/4 zip tech shirts can be purchased with registration. There is Portland race pick-up on October 14th at Foot Traffic and Hood River packet pick-up on October 15th. If you are wanting to find a local place to stay, there is a great page about accommodations and restaurants as well.
Race registration is capped (500 for full marathon, 1000 for half marathon, 120 for Dog Leg Half, and 275 for the relay) and from the looks of things, it will not disappoint. Follow the race on Facebook for updates.
Details:
- What: 2022 Columbia Gorge Half Marathon/Marathon/Team Relay
- When: Sunday, October 16th, 2022. 8:30AM for the Marathon and 9:30AM for the Half Marathon
- Where: Hood River Waterfront Trail, Hood River, OR 97031
- Cost: $125 for marathon, $115 for Half Marathon, $125 for Dog Leg Half Marathon, and $135 for Half Marathon Team Relay
- Register: Here
- Packet Pick-Up: Friday at Foot Traffic (4020 NE Fremont St, Portland) from 3:00PM-7:00PM, Saturday at Shortt Supply (116 Oak St, Hood River) from 3:00PM-7:00PM, and Race Day at the finish line tent, Hood River Event Site from 6:30AM to 8:30AM
