The Toughest 10k: Check out the 2025 Steens Rim Run 10k

If you’re looking for bragging rights for doing the toughest 10k in Oregon, look no further than the 2025 Steens Rim Run. This spectacular race, held on Saturday August 2^nd, is sure to be in your memory bank for the long haul. Better known as the “Rim Run,” you’ll be climbing your way thru a truly epic journey.

This high-altitude race starts at a staggering 7,830 feet out at the remote Steens Mountain in Southeast Oregon and finishes above 9,730 feet. The route follows the Steens Mountain Loop Road, passing Fish Creek and the Little Blitzen. You’ll literally be running along the rim’s edge where you’ll be looking out to stunning high mountain views.

Many folks camp the night before this race, and there are 4 BLM public land campgrounds (Fish Lake, Jackman Park, Page Strings, and South Steens) to choose from. There is also primitive camping anywhere on the mountain under public ownership or the Steens Mountain Resort or Frenchglen Hotel for less primitive option.

You can either run this race or walk it, with the run taking place at 10:00AM and the walk starting a half hour earlier. If you want to bring an extra bag of clothes, you can have it hauled up to the finish line in the back of one of the registration vehicles that’s near the start when you arrive. It’s recommended that you bring a sweatshirt or jacket for the top, as the weather varies from hot to snowing. The vehicles with bags will be leaving the start line at 9:15AM, so don’t be late!

The terrain is made up of a well maintained gravel road and you’ll be climbing Steens Mountain to the East Rom Overlook where you’ll look around and marvel at the journey to get there. You’ll have amazng views of the mountain and Alvord Desert 5000 feet below you. There will be portable restrooms at the start, near mile 3, and at the last turn near the finish at mile 5.9. There will also be a restroom at the finish.

After you finish, there will be plenty of rides back down to the start for you. Just ask and you shall receive!

This race is limited to about 200 participants and you’ll want to register now before prices increase mid-July. The cost currently is $50 with a shirt or $45 if you opt out of purchasing the shirt.