If someone told you to run into a pitch-black cave for a marathon PR, would you do it? That is the question that guides so many to the Light at the End of the Tunnel Marathon every summer. That event is one of three as a part of the Tunnel Marathons series each summer.
Check out our recap of the 2024 event – complete with a BQ finish!
This year on June 8 (or August 10 or September 14th), you can take on the challenge of starting your race with 2.4 miles in a tunnel, followed by the joy of 20 miles primarily downhill toward the finish line. Once you get about 50 yards into the tunnel, you can see that light ahead of you – 2 miles away – that you are running towards slowly but surely.
But this isn’t just a gimmick race series – no, they are the real deal. For those looking to BQ, look no further. The Tunnel Marathon races offer one of the fastest courses in the country. The course of each is point to point, features a steady downhill, and a low starting elevation. In fact, over 42% of runners achieved a BQ!
Participants are bussed to the starting line from the finish line parking area at Twin Falls Middle School. The race starts at the Hyak Sno Park trailhead on the John Wayne Pioneer trail just east of Snoqualmie Pass. There will be miles on forested slopes, running through Iron Horse State Park and on the Snoqualmie Valley trail a through leafy second-growth forest.
Support continues throughout the race with 10 aid stations, 5 restroom areas, and drop bag service (for your head lamp post tunnel). Finishers earn a medal, shirt, and lots of treats at the after-party.
With the course mostly downhill and mostly packed gravel, there will be lots to celebrate.
Tunnel Marathons
Summary
When: Sunday June 8, 2025 – August 10, 2025 – September 14, 2025
Time: 7am; 8am in September
Packet Pickup: Twin Falls Middle School
