Coast Busters: Tackle the Battle to the Pacific Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K

Fort Stevens State Park is one of my family’s favorite places to camp, and it’s near the mouth of the Columbia River and not too far from civilization. We love that it’s so close to Astoria, and you can’t beat running on the Oregon coast.

It’s also an area that’s home to a terrific race, The Battle to the Pacific which offers a 5k, a 10k, and a Half Marathon on November 10th this year. This race, hosted by Bivouac Racing, is the 4th and final event in the Oregon State Parks Trail Series and it’s a beautiful way to experience some trail running.

All three distances will start at the North Coffenbury Lake Day-Use Area at shelter A and all will utilize the hiking and biking trails within the park. Almost all of the terrain will be flat and on asphalt paved trails, with the last couple of miles around Coffenbury Lake being the only section on gently rolling, light-technical trails.

The half marathon consists of 3 loops which are referred to as the “outer loop,” the “inner loop,” and the “lake loop.” The lake loop will take runners past the Start/Finish area at the North Lake Day-Use Area A to run the Coffenbury Lake trail clockwise.

The 10k course consists of 2 of the loops, the inner loop and the loop around the lake. The 5k will consist of only the lake loop. You can expect an out-and-back course just over halfway before returning to the finish.

New in 2024, there will be a 12-mile US Army Ruck March Challenge. Unfamiliar with the Ruck? Well it’s not for the feint of heart of strength.  Not only are 12 mile inoloved, but it must be done with a 35-pound pack (base weight, excluding food, water, and ammo), AND you have three hours to finish. It’s more than just a physical test—it’s a measure of guts and determination, designed to challenge both mind and body.

There will be a $5 Daily Permit per vehicle required if you wish to park at the Hilltop Day-Use Area. Cash and checks (via Fee Envelope) will be expected. There will be NO cards accepted here. All of Bivouac Racing events are cupless events, so please remember to bring your own hydration. There will be two aid stations out on the course, and both will be expecting you to bring your own hydration vessel.

All finishers will receive a Bivouac Racing winners mug and entry into several raffles for awesome SWAG. You’ll also get food and beer to celebrate your day!