Daybreak Racing’s amazing 2026 kicks off on March 7th, opening with Siuslaw Dunes, directed by our friends at Daybreak Racing. Set in the stunning Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area near Florence, the event once again offers 50K, 20M, and 12K race options.
(Pronunciation note: Siuslaw is “sigh-YEW-slaw.”)
What Makes This Course Special
The race website calls Siuslaw Dunes “a wild tapestry of coastal terrain,” and that description holds up year after year. Runners will experience a constantly changing mix of:
- Ancient open sand dunes dotted with “tree islands”
- Old-growth coastal rainforest
- Stream crossings and forest roads
- Remote stretches of Pacific Ocean beach
All three distances are point-to-point courses, with shuttles provided to the start lines. The 50K adds a signature lollipop-style loop through the woods, breaking up the long dune and beach segments.
Want to know more? Read our 2020 Siuslaw Dunes recap and our 2024 recap!
Distances, Elevation & Aid
On paper, Siuslaw Dunes may not look intimidating—but the sand tells a different story.
- 50K: ~2,100 ft of gain/loss, 4 aid stations, drop bags allowed
- 20M: ~1,400 ft of gain, 3 aid stations
- 12K: ~850 ft of gain, 1 aid station
Dune running demands constant adaptation, and even experienced trail runners should expect their legs to feel it—especially late in the race.
Course maps, GPX files, schedules, and lodging recommendations are all available on the race website.
Race Day Experience
As with all Daybreak Racing events, Siuslaw Dunes is cupless. Runners will need to carry their own bottle or cup, but aid stations will be well-stocked with water, electrolyte drinks, soda, and a familiar spread of gels, bars, fruit, chips, and candy.
Giving Back to the Community
This race directly supports Siuslaw High School’s Cross Country and Track & Field programs in Florence. Daybreak Racing’s directors—Florence locals and Siuslaw High alumni—are passionate about showcasing their hometown trails while giving back to the community that shaped them.
Why Run Oregon Loves Daybreak Racing
We’re consistently impressed with Daybreak Racing events. They’re well-organized, scenic, and runner-focused, with clearly marked courses, enthusiastic volunteers, and aid stations that often feel more like trail-side parties. And the finishes? Usually memorable—in the best way (beer or chocolate milk included).
If Siuslaw Dunes isn’t already on your calendar, it should be. And while you’re at it, keep an eye on Daybreak Racing’s full event lineup throughout the year. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date.
