Running Through Wine Country: Zena Road Runs (Salem)

After completing a half marathon in an orange orchard several years ago, I obviously had to learn about a race with a 50+ year history that has participants going alongside vineyards in my beloved Pacific Northwest. With Zena Road Runs, you get to choose from three race distances (3-mile, 6-mile, and 15K).

The 15K is a loop course and the oldest race course in Oregon; the first participants crossed that start line in 1969. The 3-mile and 6-mile courses use out-and-back routes to keep runners and walkers close to their start and finish line at Noble Mountain Tree Farm.

Check out our 2022 recap here!

Packet pickup for the event is on race morning, which is also when registration closes (if there are any of the 400 spots still open). All races begin at 10am and participants must finish by noon, which means a 12:40 pace requirement for the 15K. A heated building at Noble Mountain Tree Farm provides the pre-race prep space and post-race party area.

Running Past Wineries

There is a huge list of rewards after the finish line:

• Enjoy a complimentary 5-ounce pour from a selection of Eola-Amity wines (for those over 21 who wish to partake).
• Sparkling Cider option provided as well.
• Post-event race rolls from Cascade Baking Company.
• Fresh fruit from Roth’s Fresh Markets.
• Tasty snacks from Betty Lou’s.
• Age Group Ribbons for all three races.
• Win a coffee can of quarters! They re-enact the original entry fee + registration process. (Remember to bring a quarter!)

And last but not least is the stemless wine glass given to every participant and volunteer.

Come join in the challenge and beauty of running in Oregon Wine Country with Zena Road Runs.