The very first ultra race that I ever participated in was the 2018 Mary’s Peak 50k. I enjoyed it so much that I did it again in 2019 before “retiring” from ultras temporarily. It was the only 50k I did twice and what I loved about it, (other than being so scenic,) was the personal touches. I love a “down-home” operation that feels like family and embraces the runner’s community. You get just that from…
This is going to be a FABulous trail race – and registration is limited for the 2022 Mary’s Peak Trail Runs, brought to us by Oregon Trail Runs, which takes place on May 14th, 2022. You may choose from the 50 Miler, the 50k, or the 25k distance, all of which are divine picks! After parking in Blodgett bright and early, race participants for the 50k and 25k will depart the parking area via bus…
Before I ran this race someone had told me, “Hills don’t care about your feelings”. This mantra kept me going throughout this entire race. I knew there were hills (see elevation chart below) – and there usually are on a good trail race – but the hills on these were no joke. But with that mantra in mind, a sunny, crisp late winter day, it felt like a great day for the Oregon Trail Runs…
Spring is in the air and the hope for in-person racing events is finally becoming more of a reality. Trails are good for the soul, and the 2021 Alsea Falls Spring Fling is coming our way on March 14th. You’ll have your choice between a half marathon (actually 11.1 difficult course miles,) a 10k which is 5.7 miles, and a 5k as well. This event will occur at a gorgeous location at the Alsea Falls…
**GIVEN THE UNCERTAINTY OF THINGS DUE TO COVID-19, PLEASE NOTE THAT WE ARE PREVIEWING THIS RACE AS IF IT IS STILL OCCURRING . WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO FOLLOW THESE RACES ON SOCIAL MEDIA OR THEIR WEBSITES TO DETERMINE IF CHANGES ARE BEING MADE** The Alsea Falls Spring Fling, hosted by our friends at Oregon Trail Runs, is such a fun, low-key event with spectacular trails, great support, and a decent challenge. The 2020 event…
Appropriately named, Hell of the Northwest Trail Runs promises just that, hellish climbs and difficult courses. But what makes this tough race more heavenly is the gorgeous scenery runners will be encountering. This race offers a half marathon, 10K and 5K and takes place in a little city just outside of Corvallis in the coastal mountain range of Oregon. This means the race is covered by lush trees and beautiful single track trails. Oregon Trail…
The Mary’s Peak 50k was my first ultra ever last year and among my favorites. It’s fitting that I chose it to be my last ultra, at least for a year, as it will be memorable in more ways than one. I’ve run 6 ultras now, and Mary’s Peak was the only one I did twice. To want to spend hours and hours out there more than once is telling of a good race, in…
The road was long and winding. The cell service spotty, until it failed altogether. As I drove farther away from the familiarity of I-5 and into the countryside, the mood took a turn from pre-race jitters to awe of the forest before me. As I neared the entrance of Alsea Falls Recreation Area for the Spring Fling, where I was once driving alone, cars began to catch up to be and populate my rear-view mirror.…
Being a runner in the Pacific Northwest means we have the advantage of a lot of beautiful trail races to choose from. This year, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a gorgeous run through the extremely scenic Monroe, OR. The 2018 Alsea Falls Spring Fling 5k/10k/Half Marathon Trail Run will be your chance to start off a Spring running season in the best possible way. Whether you are new to trail racing or a seasoned vet,…
I have a special place in my heart for the Hell of the Northwest event. A photo of my husband and I at the start line was even featured in our wedding announcement. I was just breaking into the distance running scene and they offered a 25K – a challenge I naively accepted. It is also the only race that has made me shed tears. I’ll never forget my own shortcomings, but also the incredible challenge…
