New England might get all the glory for fall foliage, but Oregon puts on quite a show every year as well. One way to enjoy it (and distract from the work at hand!) is during the Columbia Gorge Marathon and Half coming up on October 20th in Hood River.
See our recap of the 2023 event here!
A few years ago, this event was featured in active.com’s 10 Must-Do Marathons in the World, alongside races in Patagonia, France, and South Africa. It was described as:
Offering spectacular views of Oregon’s fall foliage during peak season, the Columbia Gorge Marathon is one of the most scenic races in the country. Taking runners down the Historic Columbia River Highway and through the gorge, the race finishes at the Port of Hood River’s Marine Park. A region that was carved out millions of years ago by Ice Age flooding, the canyon gets as deep as 4,000 feet and runs 80 miles to create a natural border between Washington and Oregon. As you navigate the 26.2-mile distance, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas overlooking the river, as well as free-flowing waterfalls and charming small towns.
Both courses are out-and-back in Hood River and start out running east on the Columbia River Highway State Park trail. Half marathoners will turn around at the Mosier Twin Tunnels and marathoners will continue to the Rowena Crest viewpoint. Not only will we be running through the turning of the leaves, but there will be vistas to breathe in and waterfalls to marvel at. Check out the race courses for the Marathon and Half Marathon here.
Aid stations are roughly every 1 to 3 miles and will have water, Gatorade, bananas, GU, and gummy bears.
The finish line will have a Fajita Taco Lunch by Spin Catering, as well as the seasonally appropriate apples and cider.
Did I mention that dogs and strollers (or dogs in strollers!) are welcome? This course is also open for folks who want to walk and not run, just mind the 3:30pm cutoff time!
You can check out the race on social media (Facebook | Instagram) for up-to-date details!
Columbia Gorge Marathon & Half $140-180
Details:
- Date: Sunday, October 20, 2024
- Time: 8:30AM for the Marathon and 9:30AM for the Half Marathon
- Location: Hood River (note: there is no parking at the start line. Racers will need to ride the shuttle bus)
- Cost: $160 for marathon, $140 for Half Marathon, $150 for Dog Leg Half Marathon, and $180 for Half Marathon Team Relay
