Carkeek Cooler Trail Run
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Carkeek Cooler Trail Run : Carkeek Park, Seattle, WA
This event offers trail running options in Carkeek Park as part of the 2026-27 Winter Trail Series. The courses run mostly through forested terrain and use existing park trails that vary in width and steepness.
Distances
- 5k (3.1 miles), approximately 480 feet of elevation gain
- 10k (6.2 miles), two loops of the 5k, approximately 960 feet of elevation gain
The route starts and finishes in the Lower Meadow next to Piper’s Creek and is roughly 85% forest. Trail surfaces include about 64% fast, wider trail and 36% narrower, rolling trail, with some flatter sections and some moderate to steep sections.
The 5k follows the Piper’s Creek Trail, climbs gently then more steeply to the head of the valley, returns partway, then climbs the South Ridge Trail into older forest before descending Clay Pit and Hillside trails to the meadow finish. The 10k is two laps of the 5k course.
Climb and distance measurements were made using a measuring wheel and contour maps; distance is likely within 1% of actual and climb within 10%. An aid station is located at the start and finish (the halfway point for 10k runners) and supplies water, electrolyte drink, and a selection of carbohydrate or salty foods. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
