The Silver Falls Trail Runs has become one of my absolute favorite races. It’s hard to describe the beauty, challenge, and reward of this race to anyone who hasn’t done it. It’s one that has to be experienced in person.
This year, the Silver Falls Trail Races fall on October 16-18, a full 2 weeks earlier than usual. The move to mid-October seems to be a hit with runners and volunteersa s they are looking at record numbers signed up to date.
As of today, the 7-miler is over 80% sold out and is expected out first – and soon.
The other races have spots open but are filling fast!
The 5k will take place on Friday; the 7 Miler, Marathon, and 50k will all be on Saturday, and the Half Marathon will be on Sunday.
The 5k, which starts at 430 PM on that Friday, is a gorgeous option for those that want a little taste of what Silver Falls State Park offers. The run starts and finishes at the South Falls Day Use area and follows a paved path to the Maple Ridge Trail. You’ll find more info on the course here.
The 7-miler is one of the more popular distances for this race, and it’s evident why. It heads up the Rim Trail to stunning views and pretty trails, along with some elevation gain and loss. Oh – and all the waterfalls. There are two waves for this Saturday race so check it out here (before its too late!).
The Half Marathon, which was featured in both Runner’s World and Race Center Magazines and voted “Best Oregon Trail Half Marathon” starts in two waves on Sunday. The views of the waterfalls on this course are jaw-dropping. You get to run under them and it never gets old no matter how many times you end up doing it. Check it out here.
Saturday also features the longer events – the Full Marathon and 50k. If these are more your speed, you’re in for a memorable journey, complete with some significant elevation gain and mud, rocks, a creek crossing, and hills. I would anticipate that the earlier date could make the trails perhaps a bit less muddy (though you never know). The 50k course is surely one of the most scenic ones on the West Coast, which is really saying something among these parts.
All aid stations will feature Heed Electrolyte as well as water. There will also be some great Ultra food on Saturday only, such as bananas, boiled potatoes, candy bars, trail mix, and chips. There will also be soda and Hammer Gels. Please pack yourself a water bottle or some form of hydration, and the aid stations can refill them for you as needed.
A drop area will be located at the first aid station around mile 3.3 for the 50k, Marathon, and Half Marathon runners. Feel free to utilize this to drop off any gear and pick it back up after the race. There is no bag check at packet pick up.
After the Saturday and Sunday races, enjoy some complimentary food, refreshments, and beer. I’ve always enjoyed the spread after I finish and cool down, and a hot meal really hits the spot. Expect veggie chili, Great Harvest bread, and some fruit and snacks. Silver Falls Coffee and hot chocolate will also be available on a first come, first serve basis.
Stick around long enough to see if you’ve won one of the raffle prizes which will be posted on a list on the stage in the main tent area. The award ceremony will also begin shortly after each race’s finish. Custom finisher medals will be given out to all finishers each day.
If you’re looking for a fun and beautiful trail race, this is it! I’ll be there and would love to see you too!!
