Traditions are a really big thing during the holiday season. We often visit the same pumpkin patches year after year, make the same tried and true Thanksgiving favorites for dinner, and don our Christmas sweaters while pulling out our holiday décor.
The same is true for races for many of us, and Turkey Trots are a staple event for many runners. There are many to choose from and each offer their own charm. My personal favorite every year is the West Linn Turkey Trot Trail Race.
Why, out of the dozens of Turkey Trots here in the Pacific NW, does this Run Oregon Blogger always pick the West Linn Turkey Trot as her race of choice on a busy Thanksgiving morning? For these reasons listed below.
It’s a Run With Paula Event. Paula ALWAYS brings us quality races that are well organized and supported with cute gear and smiling Portland Running Company crew members out there cheering you across the finish line.
It’s a trail race. No offense to all those road races, but the scenery for the West Linn Turkey Trot cannot be beat. Mary S Young Park is a gorgeous place to have a race. No boring pavement here. Just lush trees and (yes sometimes muddy) bark and dirt trails among nature.
The distance is great if you’re an over-achiever. Most Turkey Trots are a 5k distance, but this one goes a little further at 3.8 miles. It’s also a bit challenging. You run for quite awhile on a relatively flat path before the hills start, but when you get there, you’ll recognize it’s not really something you’d classify as an easy race. You’ll feel like a rockstar at the end. There’s also a ½ Mile Kids Trail Trot for the kiddos!!
The perks, of course. You’ll earn a cute Turkey Trot Mug and there’s hot chocolate and some sweet treats at the end. There’s also a costume contest (earn a $50 gift card to Portland Running Company!) and they are giving away 50 fresh and delicious pumpkin pies at the finish line at random! Don’t forget to bring a can of food (not expired) to donate to the West Linn Food Pantry or make a cash donation to this very worthy cause. It’s a good reminder to us that not everyone is as fortunate as we are, especially at this time of year.
What better way to earn your Turkey Dinner? Come out and run with me!!
2025 West Linn Turkey Trot Trail Race $10-$35
Details
- When: Thursday, November 27th, 2025
- Where: Mary S Young, West Linn, OR
- Packet Pick-Up: Portland Running Company, Beaverton on Wednesday, 11/26 from 10:00AM-2:00PM or on race morning at the park.
