Mary’s Peak Trail Runs coming up on May 20th

Mary’s Peak was my very first ultra race, so love it (the scenery) or hate it (the long hills and gravel roads,) I will never forget it. It was brutal, mentally challenging, and physically exhausting. It’s also the only 50k I ever did twice (and the 25k last year as well) so that should tell you something.

The course for the 2023 Mary’s Peak Trail Run, located in Starker Forest in Blodgett, is just beautiful. Whether you decide on the 50 miler, the 50k, or the 25k course, you’re in for a treat.

Regardless of which distance you choose, you’ll want to park at the Blodgett school, which is about 20 minutes west of Corvallis. All routes will depart from this location starting at 6:00AM (50 Miler,) 7:30AM, (50k) and 9:00AM (25k) and all promise some epic views.

Packet pick-up will be available that Friday from 4:30PM to 7:00PM outside of the Blodgett School, and this is also where you can check in if you decide to camp out in your tent. Race packets can also be picked up on Saturday from 5:00AM until 30 minutes before your race start time inside the Blodgett school gym. You can also leave a drop bag for aid stations here Friday night or race morning by 5:45AM for the 50 Miler or 7:00AM for the 50k.

Ok! Now to the fun stuff .. The course!! First, let’s talk about the 50 miler, and I’ll quote the website here: “This may be the hardest 50 miler we have laid out with the double trip to the Peak, plus a double Mohawk accent.” Don’t say we didn’t warn you. There will be 8 total aid stops, 9 places for water and 3 spectator zones. As for the 50k, this will be a single summit race that will challenge you but also show you the gorgeous views you crave. There will be 4 aid stations on this course. If the 25k is more your speed, you’ll get 2 aid stations and the “party of the trail with no pressure.” However, those that tackle the 25k will get the last half of the 50k and 50 miler route which is, admittedly, the toughest part of the event.

The race organizer has tried to have no more than 10 miles between aid stations, but in some cases this may be more and often every 5-6 miles is more the norm. Please plan accordingly, and since this is a cupless race, make sure you have enough hydration and nutrition!

There will be Cowgirl Cookin from Oakridge with Burritos and bowls for all and an awards celebration when you finish.

An event shirt is included in the registration as well as a pint glass for 50 Mile finishers. Sorry, but alcohol is not be allowed at the school. Also dogs will not be allowed on the course this year due to insurance limitations.

Oregon Trail Runs puts on fantastic events. This event brings amazing running through the Siuslaw National Forest and Starker Forest, which is private land and trails (that we actually get to run on!) This event reaches the highest point in the Oregon Coast Range. Come check it out while there’s still room for you!!