THE COURSE (details from event page)
The 50 Miler will begin at South Cle Elum and will head west following the I-90 corridor on the Iron Horse Trail. The trail will gain minimal elevation over the first 29 miles (~600’). The first 12 miles will run near I-90 until you hit the town of Easton, where the trail will head along Lake Easton and the Yakima River and run through the forests of the central Cascades. At Mile 20, you will run through the Whittier Tunnel before hitting the scenic shores of Keechelus Lake at Mile 22. Prepare to be stunned as you run along Keechelus Lake for almost 6 miles, taking in jaw dropping views of the Cascade Mountains the whole time. Shortly after Mile 28, you will arrive at Hyak where we will have one hell of a party at an aid station to get you ready for the tunnel and your downhill finish. You will enter the tunnel at Mile 29, and emerge into the light 2.4 miles later. You will now begin your epic downhill journey with more breathtaking views as you drop 1500’ over the final 18 miles to the finish line. Your reward will be a high five and an amazing belt buckle to commemorate your 50 mile journey on the Iron Horse!
*The 50K race will begin at Hyak. The course will start with an out and back east along Keechelus Lake and will turn around after 5 miles. It will then follow the remainder of the 50M course. The marathon course will also start at Hyak with an out and back along Keechelus Lake and will turn around after 2.5 miles. It will then follow the remainder of the 50M course. The marathon is USATF certified and uses the same course as our The Super Marathon and Cascade Express Marathon.