The Blanchard Beast Trail Race
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
The Blanchard Beast Trail Race
The Blanchard Beast is a GBRC trail race held on the trails of Blanchard State Forest, south of Bellingham, Washington. The course is approximately 10 miles long and features over 2,000 feet of elevation gain, putting it between a 10K and a half marathon in distance.
The route is marked with signage, pin flags, and pink ribbons. It is an open, multi-use course where participants may encounter horses and mountain bikers; riders should be yielded to on the downhill side of the trail. Pets are not allowed on the course. There is one aid station at or near the Samish Overlook offering water and a limited food selection; participants may use a portable cup to reduce waste.
Parking at the start/finish area is limited. An Alger Park and Ride location is used for overflow parking with shuttle service to the trailhead; that Park and Ride holds about 45 cars. The start/finish area and nearby trailheads can accommodate roughly 20 cars. A Discover Pass is required to park in Blanchard State Forest. Organizers advise against parking east of the start/finish line on B-1000 Road because that land is private.
A notable course feature is a required left turn on the Samish Bay Trail during the second climb to reach the Samish Overlook; missing it will add distance and elevation. Wave starts will be used and wave assignments are based on registration times. Awards include top three overall and age-group prizes by decade, plus a best race costume award. Registration is scheduled to open July 1, 2026. Online fees are listed for non-GBRC and GBRC members. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
