A Fin-tastic Guide to the Salmon Run in Bend

Celebrate the 36th year of the Salmon Run Half Marathon/10k/5k, coming to you this year on Saturday, April 20th, 2024. This race is one of Bend’s oldest organized races and is a local favorite. With a Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and even a Little Fry kids run, this event truly has a distance for everyone.

All races will begin and end at Riverbend Park in Bend and make their way along the Deschutes River – just like the running of the salmon. Except you’ll be running on both trails and paved pathways beside the river instead of swimming upstream.

Experience the awesomeness of the salmon migration by completing your own Salmon Run! Begin and end your adventure along the Deschutes River and imagine what a river journey could be like for the mighty salmon. The backdrop couldn’t be more beautiful than the Deschutes River corridor in beautiful Bend, Oregon.

The race beneficiary for this event is The Giving Plate. The Giving Plate is a grassroots food pantry with a mission to feed the hungry.

The half marathon starts at 9:00AM and there will be 5 aid stations along the course. This course is 75% paved sidewalks and 25% trail. The 10k will take off at 9:15AM and participants can expect 2 aid stations on the 80% paved sidewalks and 20% trail. The 5k starts at 9:30AM and there is one aid station. This distance offers 65% paved sidewalk and 35% trail.

All aid stations will be stocked with water, GU brew, and GU gels. There will be a gear drop tent area which is available to you at packet pick up and on-site on race morning.

For those little racers in your life, get them into the Little Fry Run. This race is part of the Pacific Source Kids Rock the Races Series and it only costs $10. This run begins at noon, so you can get your run in first.

Everyone gets a finisher’s medal and there will be shirts available to purchase. Gift bags will go to the top three male and female finishers in the open and masters categories and there are ribbons for top age groups.

After the race, stick around to enjoy some free food and a cold beer from Cascade Lakes Brewing.

I have to admit, I’m jealous of Bend runners with the beautiful scenery and great trails. If I could, I’d be running this race. Instead, I’ll just hope many of you get out there and enjoy this traditional annual Salmon Run – whatever distance you choose.