Run Lake Oswego’s Infamous Hills at the 2023 Lake Run

The Lake Oswego Lake Run is just around the corner! This well-known hilly race includes a 10K, 5K, a virtual option of either distance, and a Kids’ Dash. It also includes the annual Family Fun Festival at the finish area – Millennium Plaza. Proceeds from this event go to Northwest Housing Alternatives. There will also be a food drive for low income seniors living in Lake Oswego, so don’t forget to bring a few non-perishable food items on race day.

Northwest Housing Alternatives builds new homes and new opportunities for seniors, families, veterans and people with special needs across Oregon. With more than 1,900 homes across the state, NHA is one of the largest providers of affordable housing in Oregon.

In addition, NHA provides homeless intervention programs for families in Clackamas County, including operating the Annie Ross House family emergency shelter for families experiencing homelessness.

2023 Lake Oswego Lake Run 5K course

Both the 5K and 10K routes include great views, but the 10K loop goes almost completely around the entire lake. It’s a challenging route, but the finish is all downhill! I’ve run this race multiple times and it is truly a love-hate relationship. I love the challenge, but I do have some of those “What was I thinking?” moments. One of the things I really appreciate about the Lake Run is the community feel. The course goes through neighborhoods where you’re guaranteed to see people out in front of their houses cheering. I’ve even seen impromptu “lemonade stands” set up by kids along the way. It’s a fun event for both the participants and the community.

2023 Lake Oswego Lake Run 10K route

The other thing that adds to the community feel of this run is the Family Fun Festival in Millennium Park. After finishing, you can meander the vendor booths for snacks, fun gift items, and even enter some drawings. There will be a DJ, beer, games, and vendors. It’s a festive, small community feel at the finish line. I am definitely looking forward to participating again this year. The hills are calling my name. I can already feel my lungs and legs protesting a little! 😉 I can’t wait!