If you live in Portland and you like running on trails, the chances that you’ve run in Forest Park are almost guaranteed. Even though I’ve done a fair share of trail running myself, I am constantly amazed at the beauty that exists so close to home. The 2023 Stumptown Trail Runs 50k & Half Marathon are coming up on Memorial Day weekend, and this race has grown in popularity so much so that it sells out. Why is it worth the wait?
Well, one reason was already mentioned above .. Forest Park. The trails are stunning and also well-traveled and cared for. If you’re a local, it’s not a race you have to travel too far for, as it’s the only 50k in Portland. It’s also not as extremely daunting as many trail runs are, though it’s also sufficiently and respectfully challenging.
Another reason to put your name on the waiting list? It’s a Go Beyond race. I’ve run several Go Beyond races myself and I’m always so pleased with how well-organized they are, not to mention how beautiful the courses are. This is saying something for ultra and trail races which don’t always go exactly as planned as often as road races do. Additionally Todd and Renee are amazing race directors who really care about everyone enjoying themselves and the volunteers are true rockstars every single step of the way.
The Stumptown Trail 50k will be on Monday May 29th which is Memorial Day. It will include Wildwood Trail as well as some other less traveled areas with approximately 4000 ft of elevation gain. This is a cupless race, so you will need to bring your own drinking vessels. There will be no drop bag options, but there will be 4 aid stations along the course. Water, electrolyte drink, GU, PB&J, bananas, M&M’s gummy bears, and other stuff will be available, though the 3rd aid station will just have water. There will be a cutoff time of 1:30PM at mile 20.2 (the 4th aid station.) You can view the 50k details and course here.
The half marathon, which is on Saturday May 27th, will have about 2000 ft of elevation gain along the route and it will be scenic as well. There are 3 aid stations on this course with water, GU, and electrolyte drink. As with the 50k, the half marathon will be cupless, so plan accordingly. You can view the Half Marathon details here.
The race will begin off Thurman Street, a quarter mile up Leif Erikson. Street parking will be limited, and runners are encouraged to carpool. The Carpool Coaster program is a great option that rewards you for catching a ride with some friends. There will be no parking available for spectators at any of the aid stations.
All participants will get to celebrate their victory after the race with post-race food and drinks waiting at the finish.
Funds from the race will benefit the Forest Park Conservancy as it has in previous years. Sign up for the waiting list or think about this one next year. I’ve done the 50k myself and it was a favorite.
2023 Stumptown Trail Runs 50k & Half Marathon $85-$125
Details:
- When: May 27th & May 29th, 2023
- Where: Forest Park, Portland. Parking will be on neighborhood streets and carpooling is strongly encouraged.
- Registration: Half Marathon is sold out, but there’s a wait list available at the registration link.
- Packet Pick-Up: 6:15-7:30AM on race day. Photo ID will be required and there are no transfers of bibs.
